FINAL REPORT Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report for the Toolern Precinct, Melton South - Rockbank, Victoria
ON BEHALF OF: Macroplan Australia Pty Ltd
December 2008
Ecology Partners Pty Ltd
HEAD OFFICE: 420 Victoria Street, Brunswick VIC 3056 MELBOURNE: PO Box 298, Brunswick VIC 3056 GEELONG: PO Box 8048 Newtown VIC 3220
Table of Contents
1 Objectives of the Plan...... 6 2 Area Covered by the Plan...... 7 3 Native Vegetation within the Precinct ...... 8 3.1 Previous Ecological Investigations of Toolern Precinct...... 8 3.2 Ecological Vegetation Classes...... 8 3.3 Vegetation Condition...... 11 3.4 Significant Flora Species and Communities...... 21 3.4.1 National ...... 21 3.4.2 State...... 21 3.4.3 Regional and local...... 21 3.4.4 Significant communities...... 22 4 Native Fauna within the Precinct...... 23 4.1 Faunal Habitats...... 23 4.2 Significant Fauna ...... 27 4.2.1 National ...... 27 4.2.2 State...... 29 4.2.3 Regional and local...... 30 4.2.4 Management/protection measures for fauna within the precinct ...... 35 5 Net Gain Analysis...... 38 5.1 Habitat Hectare Calculations...... 38 5.2 Scattered Tree calculations...... 41 5.3 Summary of Habitat Hectare Calculations ...... 41 6 Native Vegetation to be Retained and Removed...... 43 6.1 Areas Proposed to be Retained ...... 43 6.2 Areas Proposed to be Removed ...... 43 6.3 Large Old Trees in Patches to be Retained ...... 46 6.4 Large Old Trees in Patches to be Removed ...... 46 6.5 Scattered Trees proposed to be Retained and Removed ...... 48 7 Net Gain Calculations ...... 49 7.1 Gains Required to Account for Vegetation Losses...... 49 7.1.1 Habitat hectare zones ...... 49 7.1.2 Scattered Trees ...... 51 7.1.3 Summary of Net Gain targets...... 52 8 Net Gain Offsets...... 54
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Figures...... 55 Appendices ...... 76 References ...... 97 Tables Table 1. Fauna of national conservation significance either recorded within (AVW), or predicted to occur within the study area EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST)...... 31 Table 2. Habitat Hectare Assessment Results...... 39 Table 3. Quantification of Scattered Trees...... 41 Table 4. Quantification of Habitat Zones to be retained within precinct (including Stockland land)...... 44 Table 5. Quantification of Habitat Zones and Patches to be removed within precinct (including Stockland land) ...... 45 Table 6. Quantification of Large Old Trees in Habitat Zones to be retained within precinct (including Stockland land) ...... 47 Table 7. Quantification of Large Old Trees in Habitat Hectare patches to be removed within precinct (including Stockland land)...... 47 Table 8. Quantification of Scattered Trees to be retained and removed in precinct...... 48 Table 9. Net Gain habitat hectare and Large Old Tree targets in zones and targets in patches ...... 49 Table 10. Net Gain scattered tree targets based on the Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006) – ‘not including Other Trees...... 51 Table 11. Net Gain scattered tree targets based on the Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006) – for Other Trees ...... 52 Table A1.1. Significant flora within 10 kilometres of the study area...... 77 Table A1.2. Significant fauna within 10 kilometres of the study area...... 78 Table A3. Defining Vegetation Condition...... 82 Table A4.1. Location of habitat hectare zones to be removed and retained according to land parcel zones within precinct ...... 83 Table A4.2. Location of Large Old Trees in habitat hectare zones to be removed and retained according to land parcel zones within precinct ...... 87 Table A5.1. Scattered trees to be removed and retained according to land parcel zones within precinct...... 90 Plates Plate 1. Grey Box within far western portion of study area ...... 12 Plate 2. Fragrant Saltbush Rhagodia parabolica (rare-DSE) ...... 12 Plate 3. River Red-gum along Toolern Creek ...... 14 Plate 4. Sharp rush infestation in Toolern Creek...... 14
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Plate 5. Buloke (listed on FFG Act) directly north of Bridge Road ...... 16 Plate 6. Highly degraded Plains Swampy Woodland along Albert Road ...... 18 Plate 7. Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex along Mount Cottrell Road.. 19 Plate 8. Plains Grassy Woodland (River Red-gum) with modified understorey ...... 20 Plate 9. Degraded Lignum Swamp site along Paynes Road...... 20
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Acknowledgements We thank the following people for their contribution to the project.
• Kristy Plant and Jessica Cutting (MarcoPlan Pty. Ltd.) for project information. • Jason Black (Insight Planning Consultants Pty. Ltd.) for project and site information. • Mat Garner and Jennifer Loulie (Melton Shire Council) for landowner access and site information. • Adele McErlain (The Department of Sustainability and Environment) for comments on the draft plan. • Warren Lee (Stockland) and Bill Green (local landowner) for site information and tour. • Aspect Studios for mapping and GIS data. • Parks Victoria, Stockland and Melton Shire Council for the provision of previous reports. • All landowners within the Toolern Precinct who provided access to their properties as well as site knowledge and information. • Department of Sustainability and Environment for access to the data on the Flora Information System and Atlas of Victorian Wildlife.
Cover Photo: River Red-gum remnants of Plains Grassy Woodland within study area (Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd.)
Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. personnel who conducted the site assessments and who prepared the report are Aaron Organ, Ian Wheatland, Andrew Hill, Anna Foley and Zed Senbergs.
Copyright © Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. This document is subject to copyright and may only be used for the purposes for which it was commissioned. The use, or copying of this document in whole or part without the permission of Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. is an infringement of copyright. Disclaimer Although Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. have taken all the necessary steps to ensure that an accurate document has been prepared, the company accepts no liability for any damages or loss incurred as a result of reliance placed upon either the report, or its content.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 5
1 OBJECTIVES OF THE PLAN
This Native Vegetation Precinct plan (NVPP) background report applies to the Toolern Precinct site (Figure 1 and 2).
The purpose of the NVPP background report is to:
• Provide thorough ecological assessment and Net Gain analyses for input into the overall NVPP incorporated document.
• Specify flora and fauna values, habitat hectare calculation and Net Gain offset requirements in respect to the precinct.
• Provide guidance for the implementation offsets, to achieve Net Gain.
The purpose of the NVPP incorporated document is to:
• Contribute to the implementation of a landscape approach to vegetation management;
• Clearly specify, prior to the precinct being rezoned for residential and employment purposes, or before the development of land for other uses permissible within the residential and employment zone, and prior to the commencement of large scale development in the precinct, which vegetation may be removed and which vegetation must be retained within the precinct, and
• Allocate rights and responsibilities between landowners in terms of offset requirements where vegetation may be removed; and,
• Specify procedure for providing offsets, to achieve Net Gain.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 6
2 AREA COVERED BY THE PLAN
The Toolern Precinct is approximately 2,373 hectares in area and encompasses the townships of Melton South and Rockbank. It is located approximately 35 kilometres west of the Melbourne CBD and lies to the south and east of Melton township (Figure 1). It is bordered by the Western Freeway to the north and Paynes Road to the east. The western boundary partially follows Toolern Creek and the Melton Reservoir whilst the southern boundary follows existing land parcel boundaries along the Urban Growth Boundary.
The Toolern Precinct encompasses three smaller precincts which include:
• Precinct 1- Bordered by the Western Highway to the west, Melton Reservoir to the south-west, Toolern Creek to the east and the Melton South residential area to the north (Figure 1);
• Precinct 2 – Bordered by Toolern Creek to the west, the Melton Rail Corridor to the south, Paynes Road to the east and Western Highway to the north (Figure 1); and,
• Precinct 3 – Bordered by Toolern Creek to the west, the Urban Growth Boundary to the south, Paynes Road to the east and the Melton Rail Corridor to the north (Figure 1).
The majority of the Toolern Precinct is currently privately owned and used for farming, grazing or industrial purposes. However, the area within the vicinity of Toolern Creek, including a portion of land to the west of the creek and a large area to the east of the creek are currently owned by the Shire of Melton (Figure 3). A portion of this area is currently used for grazing purposes. It is proposed that part of the Council owned land will be used as a Regional Park and be managed for conservation and recreational purposes.
Major roads running north-south within the precinct include Exford Road, Ferris Road, Mount Cottrell Road and Paynes Road. Major roads to run east-west include Bridge Road, Alfred Road and Iramoo Circuit. A regional railway line runs east-west across the precinct and is flanked by a railway reserve approximately 10-15 metres wide to the north and south of the railway line.
According to DSE’s Biodiversity Interactive Map (www.dse.vic.gov.au) the study area occurs within the Victorian Volcanic Plains bioregion. This bioregion extends from Portland in the west to Craigieburn in the east and from Clunes in the north to Colac in the south. The precinct is within the municipality of the Shire of Melton and within the jurisdiction of the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority.
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3 NATIVE VEGETATION WITHIN THE PRECINCT
3.1 Previous Ecological Investigations of Toolern Precinct
The following flora and fauna assessments, ‘habitat hectare’ analyses, environmental values assessments, and arborist report were used as part of the development of the NVPP Background Report: • Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. 2008. Toolern Precinct Structure Plan: Flora and Fauna Assessment and Habitat Hectare Analysis, Melton South, Victoria; • Brett Lane and Associates Pty. Ltd. 2007. Exford Road, Melton South, Flora and Fauna Assessment; • Galbraith and Associates Pty. Ltd. 2007. Exford Road, Melton South Tree Assessment; • Centre for Environmental Management 2006. Toolern Creek Regional Park Environmental Values Assessment; • Centre for Environmental Management 2006. Toolern Creek Regional Park Environmental Values Assessment of Shire of Melton land adjacent to the Park Investigation Area; and • Brett Lane and Associates Pty. Ltd. 2004. Flora and Fauna Assessment, Proposed Melton Harness Track.
3.2 Ecological Vegetation Classes
The site assessments indicate that there are remnants of six Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) within the study area:
Creekline Grassy Woodland
Remnants of Creekline Grassy Woodland (EVC 68), which is generally in poor condition, occur along a majority of Toolern Creek within the western portion of the study area (Figure 2). Creekline Grassy Woodland is typically dominated by a River Red-gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis overstorey with an occasional shrub layer component, as well as a grassy/sedgy and herbaceous ground layer (DSE EVC Benchmark). Within the study area, an indigenous shrub and ground layer component is largely absent. However, overstorey River Red-gum and several aquatic flora species persist along the creek. Creekline Grassy Woodland is currently classified as an endangered EVC within the bioregion.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 8
Plains Woodland
Remnants of Plains Woodland (EVC 803), ranging from poor to relatively good quality vegetation, exist within the study area. Plains Woodland generally occurs as small patches within the western portion of the study area, to the east of Toolern Creek and along the railway reserve to the north.
There are also smaller patches along Bridge Road and Mount Cottrell Road. Three larger patches of Plains Woodland also occur along the southern boundary of the study area (Figure 2).
Plains Woodland is typically characterised by an overstorey of several different eucalypt species such as Grey Box Eucalyptus microcarpa, Yellow Box Eucalyptus melliodora, Yellow Gum Eucalyptus leucoxylon as well as Buloke Allocasuarina leuhmannii (DSE EVC Benchmark). Shrub species are generally sparse in cover, although it is thought that prior to European settlement there may have been a more dominant shrub component (Oates and Taranto 2001). The ground layer typically consists of grasses or sedges and herbs adapted to low summer rainfall (EVC Benchmark). Plains Woodland is currently restricted to the driest areas of the plains to the west of Melbourne (Oates and Taranto 2001).
Within the study area, Plains Woodland is dominated by an overstorey of Grey Box and Yellow Box as well as the occasional Buloke. While shrub species are generally absent, some areas contain a good cover of indigenous grasses and scattered herbs, including chenopods. Chenopods are a family of flowering plants of arid or salt-affected areas (Burgman and Lindenmayer 1998). The majority of the scattered trees within the study area are remnants from Plains Woodland EVC. Plains Woodland is currently classified as an endangered EVC within the bioregion
Plains Grassy Woodland
Remnants of Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55), ranging from relatively poor to moderate quality vegetation, generally occur as small patches within the eastern portion of the study area with scattered remnants also within the north-western portion (Figure 2). This EVC typically occurs on poorly drained soils at low elevations and is dominated by an overstorey of River Red-gum with an understorey of sparse shrubs and species-rich grasses and herbs (DSE EVC Benchmark). Within the study area the River Red-gum are present, although the understorey is typically dominated by either introduced pasture grasses or indigenous grasses with little species diversity. Shrub species are generally absent. Plains Grassy Woodland is currently classified as endangered within the bioregion.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 9
Plains Grassland
Low-rainfall Plains Grassland (EVC 132_63), which is generally of a good quality, occurs along the existing railway reserve in the north of the study area (Figure 2). Low-rainfall Plains Grassland (EVC 132_63) is characterised by treeless vegetation less than one metre tall dominated by a diversity of grasses and herbs. It generally occurs on cracking basalt soils in areas receiving less than 500 millimetres annual rainfall (DSE EVC Benchmark). Within the railway reserve there is a relatively good cover of species-rich indigenous grasses and herbs interspersed with areas supporting small shrubs (i.e. Acacia spp.) as well as patches of other ecological vegetation classes.
Within the eastern portion of the study area (Figure 2) there are large areas containing a monoculture of indigenous grasses (i.e. wallaby and spear grasses) with little other indigenous species present. Due to past and current land management practices (i.e. grazing and cropping) and the area’s highly modified nature, these areas of Plains Grassland may be regarded as ‘degraded treeless vegetation’. Nevertheless, they cover a wide area and contain a high density of indigenous grass species which should be seen as significant for the region. Plains Grassland is currently classified as endangered within the bioregion.
Lignum Swamp
Remnants of Lignum Swamp (EVC 104), ranging from poor to good quality vegetation, persist within four separate parts of the study area. One of these sites occurs along Paynes Road to the east whilst a smaller patch exists in the west within the railway reserve (Figure 2). Lignum Swamp also persists north of the railway Lignum Swamp patch, and a patch of good quality Lignum Swamp exists at the intersection of the Western Highway and Ferris Road (Figure 2). Lignum Swamp is typically characterised as a shrubland dominated by Lignum Muehlenbeckia florulenta or an open woodland containing River Red-gum (DSE EVC Benchmark). It occurs on seasonally inundated soils in depressions and floodways within low rainfall areas.
Although Lignum Swamp within the study area is devoid of a sparse cover of River Red-gum, a more intact example of what may have once existed is present adjacent to the Paynes Road Lignum Swamp site. While this area is outside the current study area confines it contains good quality Lignum Swamp on the periphery with a combined Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp complex further east.
However, at present three of the four Lignum Swamp patches within the study area support only Lignum with a highly weedy understorey. Lignum Swamp abutting the Western Highway contains overstorey vegetation and a higher diversity of understorey species. Lignum Swamp is currently classified as endangered within the bioregion.
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Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex
Remnants of Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex (EVC 784), ranging from poor to moderate quality vegetation, occurs within four separate areas in the eastern portion of the study area (Figure 2). There are two areas along the southern boundary to the east and west of Mount Cottrell Road, one area along Alfred Road and one area along Mount Cottrell Road. This EVC is typically considered a wetland consisting of a mixture of the structural components of Plains Swampy Woodland (River Red-gum or Swamp Gum Eucalyptus ovata as overstorey) and Lignum Swamp (with a typically Lignum dominated understorey). The density and cover of overstorey species is typically greater within this EVC than within a Lignum Swamp EVC where the woodland is more open (Doug Frood pers. comm.).
Within the study area the overstorey remnants (River Red-gum) and Lignum understorey are generally present. However, in some instances past and current land management practices have modified the understorey component. In addition, these areas are currently dry and may only be inundated on an occasional basis. The best example of this EVC can be observed within the Mount Cottrell Road site where there is a high density of River Red-gum and Lignum, as well as other understorey species.
This EVC is considered extremely rare and occurs within the rain shadow area to the west of Melbourne (DSE EVC Benchmark). It is currently classified as endangered within the bioregion.
3.3 Vegetation Condition
Far western portion of study area – west of Rees Road (Parcel no. 9841) and west of Exford Road (Parcel no. 11597 )
This area is dominated by introduced pasture species and is largely modified with little ecological value. However, there are remnant patches of Plains Woodland within the eastern portion of this area (Figure 2). Grey Box is the dominant overstorey species within these patches (Plate 1) with the understorey containing mostly weedy introduced pasture species. However, parts of this area also contain several chenopod species such as Nodding Saltbush Einadia nutans, Berry Saltbush Atriplex semibaccata, Ruby Saltbush Enchylaena tomentosa and the state significant rare Fragrant Saltbush Rhagodia parabolica (Plate 2). Scattered indigenous trees are also present. Areas surrounding a now demolished residence on site contain planted vegetation.
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Plate 1. Grey Box within far western portion of study area
Plate 2. Fragrant Saltbush Rhagodia parabolica (rare-DSE)
The area west of Exford Road (Parcel no. 11597) is relatively devoid of native vegetation and has previously been cropped and modified for farming and/or grazing purposes. However, there are isolated occurrences of the indigenous Tree Violet Melicytus dentatus. Two remnant Grey Box and several Lightwood Acacia implexa occur within the Exford Road reserve.
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Between Werribee River and Toolern Creek – Stockland land
The land within this area has been extensively cleared and currently cultivated for oats and introduced pasture grasses. A large patch (approximately 7.62 hectares) of Plains Woodland (also known as Riverina Plains Grassy Woodland) exists west of the Exford Homestead and a patch (3.62 hectares) of Creekline Grassy Woodland occurs within the Toolern Creek Valley (Figure 2).
A total of 123 scattered trees have been recorded within this portion of the study area (Figure 2). Species include River Red-gum, Grey Box, Yellow Box, Buloke and Blue Box Eucalyptus baueriana.
The Melton Reservoir has been extensively modified with a small number of River Red-gum and Blackwood occurring on the embankment. The banks of the reservoir contain little aquatic vegetation, and the adjacent bank contains predominantly exotic species with scattered Kangaroo Grass Themeda triandra and spear grasses Austrostipa spp.
The west side of the Toolern Valley escarpment contains mostly introduced vegetation with the northern section dominated by the exotic species Sharp Rush Juncus acutus subsp. acutus. The noxious weed Salvinia Salvinia molesta (listed as a Weed of National Significance) was also recorded within the northern portion of the creek escarpment.
The middle section of the Toolern Valley escarpment contains Creekline Grassy Woodland supporting River Red-gum, Yellow Box, Tree Violet and Blackwood with an indigenous understorey of grasses. The creek contains indigenous sedges, bulrushes and reeds. The steepest section of the Toolern Creek Valley contains introduced species such as Gorse Ulex europaeus, Soursob Oxalis pes-caprae and Toowoomba Canary-grass Phalaris aquatica.
Toolern Creek
The majority of Toolern Creek is dominated by large old River Red-gums and regenerating saplings (Plate 3). However, the understorey is largely dominated by introduced species, in particular woody species, such as African Boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum, Pepper Tree Schinus molle, Gorse Ulex europaeus and Willow Salix spp. Other weeds that line the creek banks include Drooping Prickly-pear Opuntia monacantha, Sharp Rush Juncus acutus subsp. acutus, Fennel Foeniculum vulgare and Ox-tongue Helminthotheca echioides, as well as introduced pasture species such as Soft Brome Bromus hordeaceus subsp. hordeaceus, Yorkshire Fog Holcus lanatus, Oat Avena spp. and Annual Veldt-grass Ehrharta longiflora. The state significant rare Austral Tobacco Nicotiana suaveolens was observed in the south on the opposite side of the creek.
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Parts of the upper banks contain indigenous species such as spear grass Austrostipa spp., wallaby grass Austrodanthonia spp., Berry Saltbush and Wattle Mat-rush Lomandra filiformis. There are also scattered indigenous trees such as Lightwood Acacia implexa and Black Wattle Acacia mearnsii on parts of the upper creek banks.
Plate 3. River Red-gum along Toolern Creek
Indigenous aquatic and semi-aquatic vegetation observed within and abutting the creek include Common Reed Phragmites australis, Bulrush Typha spp., Pondweed Potamogeton spp., Water Ribbons Triglochin procera and Water Plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica. Parts of the creek are also heavily infested with the noxious weed Sharp Rush Juncus acutus subsp. acutus (Plate 4).
Plate 4. Sharp rush infestation in Toolern Creek
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Areas west of Toolern Creek within land currently owned by Melton Shire Council (Figure 3) supports a combination of Plains Woodland patches and scattered trees with an understorey dominated by indigenous grasses such as spear grasses and wallaby grasses Austrodanthonia spp.
Railway reserve (between Toolern Creek and Paynes Road) (Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd.)
The railway reserve is dominated by indigenous flora species and several EVCs are represented within this portion of the study area. Areas of Plains Woodland in the west are dominated by mature and regenerating Grey Box whilst further east patches are consist of immature Grey Box and acacia species. One area between Ferris and Mount Cottrell Roads is dominated by many large old and regenerating Buloke (Figure 2).
Patches of good quality Plains Grassland occur throughout the railway reserve and these species continue to occupy parts of the understorey within patches of Plains Woodland. Dominant species include Kangaroo Grass Themeda triandra, spear grasses and wallaby grasses, as well as herbs such as Smooth Rice-flower Pimelea glauca, Magenta Stork’s-bill Pelargonium rodneyanum, Bronze Bluebell Wahlenbergia luteola, Blue Devil Eryngium ovinum, Lobe-seed Daisy Brachyscome dentata and Creamy Stackhousia Stackhousia monogyna. A majority of these areas contain minimal weed cover with a high cover of indigenous grasses. One area along the railway reserve is a part of a River Red-gum dominated Plains Grassy Woodland with a depleted indigenous understorey.
Wetlands within Railway Reserve
One small area of Lignum Swamp persists within the western portion of the railway reserve (Figure 2). It contains a relatively sparse cover of Tangled Lignum with a weedy understorey and/or bare patches of earth. The swamp was dry at the time of the present assessment.
Railway Reserve (west of Ferris Road)
A small area (0.49 hectares) of High conservation significance Plains Grassland. Dominant indigenous species include Kangaroo Grass, spear grasses and wallaby grasses. Also present are several individuals of Arching Flax-lily Dianella sp. aff. longifolia (Benambra), which is listed as vulnerable within Victoria. Other indigenous species present include Wattle Mat- rush Lomandra longifolia subsp. longifolia, Yellow Rush-lily Tricoryne elatior, and Sprawling Bluebell Wahlenbergia gracilis. Dominant exotic species include Perennial Rye- grass Lolium perenne, Wild Oat Avena spp., and Onion Grass Romulea rosea. Additionally, a low cover of Patterson’s Curse Echium plantagineum, Serrated Tussock Nassella trichotoma, and Toowoomba Canary-grass Phalaris aquatica is present.
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Toolern Creek to Ferris Road
A majority of this portion of the study area is dominated by introduced pasture species and is of negligible ecological value. However, several patches of Plains Woodland persist with one larger patch occurring near the southern boundary of the study area (Figure 2).
This patch of Plains Woodland is dominated by Grey Box and Yellow Box with a relatively intact understorey consisting of spear grasses and a small amount of herbs such as Berry Saltbush, Kidney Weed Dichondra repens and Variable Glycine Glycine tabacina. There is also one Buloke (listed on FFG Act) within this patch. Other Plains Woodland patches alongside the creek and Bridge Road are relatively devoid of indigenous understorey vegetation.
A large amount of scattered trees, mostly remnants of Plains Woodland EVC, occur within this portion of the study area. These scattered trees include River Red-gum, Grey Box, Yellow Box and Buloke (Plate 5). The majority of these scattered trees have a highly weedy understorey, although some areas are dominated by indigenous grasses which may be considered ‘degraded treeless vegetation’ due to the monoculture of grass species present, and past and current land management practices (i.e. cropping and grazing). These areas exist within the south-west and north-west sections of this area, as well as adjacent to the railway line (Figure 2).
Plate 5. Buloke (listed on FFG Act) directly north of Bridge Road
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Wetlands between Toolern Creek and Ferris Road
The northern portion of this area contains degraded linear areas of Lignum Swamp (Figure 2) abutting large dirt mounds. The understorey within these areas contains a sparse cover of indigenous vegetation together with introduced flora species and/or bare patches of earth. This swamp may be a remnant of a much larger wetland that once existed directly north of this area, but which is now a disused land fill site. This wetland was dry at the time of the present assessment.
A relatively good quality Lignum Swamp patch occurs at the intersection of the Western Highway and Ferris Road (Figure 2). This area is dominated by indigenous trees, shrubs, grasses and herbs, with a moderate degree of invasion by environmental weeds. This low lying area is probably subject to inundation in very wet periods. The area is dominated by the canopy tree Grey Box. There are 13 mature trees of Grey Box in the area, eight of which are larger than 70cm dbh, and therefore meet the definition of ‘large old trees’ for this EVC. There is extensive regeneration of Grey Box trees throughout the site, and a healthy cover of the medium shrub Tangled Lignum. The understorey includes a good cover of native grasses including Swamp Wallaby Grass (Amphibromus spp.), Wallaby Grass and Spear Grass. A number of native herbs are also present including a single specimen of the Arching Flax-lily, a state significant species, and many specimens of Raspwort Haloragis spp., Berry Saltbush Atriplex semibaccata, Ruby Saltbush Enchylaena tomentosa, Saloop Einadia hastata, Kidney Weed Dichondra repens, Crassula Crassula spp. and Common Woodruff Asperula conferta.
The introduced species Wild Oat, Blanket Weed Galenia spp., Horehound Marrubium vulgare, African Boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum, Toowoomba Canary-grass Phalaris aquatica, Serrated Tussock Nassella trichotoma, Onion Grass Romulea rosea and Romulea minutiflora, Dock Rumex spp. and Pepper-cress Lepidium africanum are also present with a total cover of approximately 40%.
Ferris Road to Mount Cottrell Road
This portion of the study area contains isolated patches of three different EVCs. The largest patch of vegetation occurs in the far south along the study area boundary (Figure 2). This patch contains remnants of Plains Woodland, Plains Grassy Woodland and Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex. A high proportion of the patch is dominated by Grey Box which had recently died off due to an unidentified disturbance or event (possibly the prolonged drought). However, the majority of these are now coppicing (re-shooting) from the base of the tree. The understorey within this Plains Woodland patch is of good quality with a majority dominated by indigenous grasses together with herbs such as Common Everlasting Chrysocephalum apiculatum and Yellow Rush-lily.
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Immediately north of the Plains Woodland patch is an area of Plains Grassy Woodland which is dominated by River Red-gums with a mixt of indigenous and introduced understorey species. This area appears to be within an eco-tonal environment where the Grey Box- dominated Plains Woodland environment predominant in the west intersects with the River Red-gum-dominated Plains Grassy Woodland environment predominant in the east.
Many of the properties in the east of this part of the precinct are dominated by a monoculture of indigenous grasses (Figure 2). These areas may be regarded as ‘degraded treeless vegetation’.
There are also several scattered indigenous trees, including Buloke, that occur within this portion of the study area.
Wetlands between Ferris Road and Mount Cottrell Road
Amongst the large patch of Grey Box near the southern study area boundary is a small patch of River Red-gum (many of which are large and old) and Lignum which may have once formed part of a Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex. This area covers a relatively small area and was dry at the time of the present assessment.
Further north there are also patches of Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex along Albert Road. These areas are currently being grazed hence the understorey is highly modified with little indigenous vegetation (Plate 6). However, Lignum and several indigenous herbs are still evident on site. Plains Grassy Woodland patches also occur north of the rail line. Generally these patches contain large old River Red-gum with a weedy understorey, although there are small areas of natural regeneration and Lignum present.
Plate 6. Highly degraded Plains Swampy Woodland along Albert Road
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Mount Cottrell Road to Paynes Road
Several EVCs occur within this far eastern portion of the study area. Along the southern portion of Mount Cottrell Road within the roadside reserve are many, mostly regenerating, River Red-gums along with Hedge Wattle Acacia paradoxa and scattered indigenous grasses. A majority of these trees have been lopped due to the presence of overhead power lines and are subsequently stunted in growth. Several Buloke also occur within this area.
Several Plains Grassy Woodland patches dominated by large old River Red-gums occur east of Mount Cottrell Road (Figure 2). The understorey within these areas is dominated by a monoculture of indigenous grasses which may be regarded as ‘degraded treeless vegetation’ as well as introduced species (Plate 8). These indigenous grasses extend further east to the study area boundary and north towards the railway line (Figure 2).
Wetlands between Mount Cottrell Road and Paynes Road
Good quality patches of Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex occur along Mount Cottrell Road north of the railway line (Figure 2). These patches retain a good cover of healthy River Red-gum with a Lignum dominated understorey (Plate 7). Other species include Black-anther Flax-lily Dianella revoluta var. revoluta and Common Tussock-grass Poa labillardierei.
Although remnants of this EVC also occur along the southern boundary, this quite degraded and is in poorer condition than vegetation remnants at the Mount Cottrell Road site.
Plate 7. Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex along Mount Cottrell Road
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 19
A patch of highly depleted Lignum Swamp also occurs along the far eastern boundary along Paynes Road (Figure 2). This area has been highly modified by past and present land management practices and hence there is little vegetative cover (Plate 9). However, Lignum is present, particularly within the road reserve, and vegetation will most likely regenerate if the land is excluded from grazing uses. Several scattered remnant trees (River Red-gum) also occur within this portion of the study area.
Plate 8. Plains Grassy Woodland (River Red-gum) with modified understorey
Plate 9. Degraded Lignum Swamp site along Paynes Road
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 20
3.4 Significant Flora Species and Communities
3.4.1 National
No nationally significant flora species were recorded during the current assessment. However, one nationally significant flora species – the endangered Small Golden Moths orchid Diuris sp. aff. chryseopsis (Basalt Plains) – was recorded in 1996 along the railway line within the study area (FIS). However, during the current assessment it was not detected.
In addition, one other nationally significant species – the vulnerable Clover Glycine Glycine latrobeana - has previously been recorded directly south of the southern boundary of the study area abutting Toolern Creek (FIS). A further three nationally significant species have been recorded within a 10 kilometre radius of the study area (FIS) (Appendix 1).
Four other nationally significant species not previously documented in the local area have habitat as potentially occurring within a 10 kilometre radius of the study area (DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool) (Appendix 1).
3.4.2 State
Three state significant flora species were recorded during the current assessment – the vulnerable Arching Flax-lily Dianella spp. aff. longifolia (Benambra), the rare Fragrant Saltbush Rhagodia parabolica and the rare Austral Tobacco Nicotiana suaveolens. Arching Flax-lily (previously named Glaucous Flax-lily Dianella longifolia var. grandis) is predominantly scattered within the railway reserve, whilst Fragrant Saltbush was recorded within the far western portion of the study area west of Rees Road (Plate 2) and along the banks of Toolern Creek. Austral Tobacco has also been recorded along the banks of Toolern Creek.
An additional 21 state significant flora species have previously been recorded within the local area (Appendix 1) with two of these species – the poorly known Black Roly-poly Sclerolaena muricata var. muricata and the vulnerable Buloke Mistletoe Amyema linophylla subsp. orientale - recorded immediately south of the southern study area boundary (FIS).
3.4.3 Regional and local
Over 50 regionally significant flora species were recorded within the study area during the assessment.
All other indigenous species are considered to be of local significance due to the depletion of native vegetation in the local area.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 21
3.4.4 Significant communities
One nationally threatened vegetation community occurs within the precinct. This is Plains Grassland which forms part of the EPBC Act listed ‘Natural Temperate Grasslands of the Victorian Volcanic Plain’. This community is currently listed as ‘critically endangered’ under the EPBC Act.
The DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool indicates that that no other nationally threatened ecological communities are likely to occur within, or immediately adjacent to the study area.
There are remnants of three vegetation communities currently listed as threatened under the FFG Act within the study area: Grey Box – Buloke Grassy Woodland Community, Western (Basalt) Plains Grassland Community and Western Basalt Plains (River Red-gum) Grassy Woodland Floristic Community 55-04.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 22
4 NATIVE FAUNA WITHIN THE PRECINCT
The following is based on results from the previous flora and fauna assessments undertaken within the study area (Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. 2008).
Present assessment
The study area supports habitat for a range of native fauna species in both modified and natural remnant grassland habitat. During the present assessment, a total of 40 bird species (32 native, eight introduced), five mammal species (two native, three introduced), two native reptiles and two native frogs were detected (Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. 2008).
4.1 Faunal Habitats
The study area supports several habitat types, including remnant woodland, Toolern Creek, remnant Lignum wetlands, scattered remnant trees, planted trees and shrubs, farm dams, native grassland and introduced pasture/grassland. The overall value of habitats within the study area for fauna ranges from low for pasture up to moderate for remnant woodland.
Much of the land within the study area has previously been cleared for agriculture, and is currently or has recently been used for livestock grazing, cropping activities or other industry.
Remnant Woodland – Corresponding EVCs: Creekline Grassy Woodland (EVC 68), Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55_61) and Plains Woodland (803)
Creekline Grassy Woodland (River Red-gum) is present along the length of Toolern Creek (see description of Toolern Creek below). This woodland has undergone past disturbance and has a modified understorey of weeds, pasture grasses and aquatic vegetation, with scattered surface and escarpment rock present. The majority of River Red-gums along the creek are mature and hollow-bearing.
Small remnant patches of Plains Grassy Woodland (River Red-gum) are present along the railway line and on private land in the east of the study area. The understorey in these remnants is either absent or highly modified, and lacks important habitat features (e.g. dense native vegetation, ground debris) required by many fauna.
Plains Woodland (Grey Box) is present in scattered remnants across the study area. The largest remnants are present in the south of the study area, one near the intersection of Exford Road and the Melton Reservoir, one remnant approximately one kilometre to the east of Toolern Creek, and another remnant 300 metres to the west of Mount Cottrell Road. Smaller remnants are scattered on the escarpments along Toolern Creek and near Melton Reservoir, and on land to the east and west of Toolern Creek (Figure 2). The majority of these remnants are highly disturbed and lack key understorey elements.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 23
Remnant vegetation along Toolern Creek is likely to contribute to a wildlife corridor, provides potential habitat for a small number of threatened or near-threatened fauna species, and is considered to be of moderate habitat quality for fauna. The small patches of this habitat within the study area are typically floristically and structurally deficient due to past land clearing, grazing and ongoing invasion from pasture grasses and weeds. Nevertheless, this area provides important habitat for a diversity of fauna (principally for woodland birds), particularly in areas that have been extensively cleared for agriculture, and are considered to be of low to moderate habitat quality for fauna.
Remnant woodland, albeit quite modified, provides habitat for a small number of ground dwelling mammals (e.g. Eastern Grey Kangaroo), introduced species such as carnivores (e.g. Red Fox) and also herbivores (European Rabbit, Brown Hare).
This habitat type also provides a resource for a range of fauna including diurnal raptors (e.g. Brown Falcon, Nankeen Kestrel, Black-shouldered Kite) and nocturnal raptors (e.g. Southern Boobook, Tawny Frogmouth, Barn Owl), which would use this area periodically in search of prey or potentially for breeding. Avian raptors would also utilise modified forest remnants and scattered trees for perching, roosting and foraging activities.
Remnant woodland also provides a diversity of niches for other woodland dependent birds. For example, insectivorous species can forage on tree trunks and underneath bark, on leaves and flowers, and in ground debris at ground level. Eucalypts also provide an important source of food for nectar-feeding woodland birds (e.g. honeyeaters, lorikeets), and tree hollows provide nesting and denning sites for hollow-dependent mammals and birds, such as Common Ringtail Possum, Common Brush-tail Possum, Galah, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo and insectivorous bats. Threatened woodland birds such as Hooded Robin, Speckled Warbler, Brown Treecreeper, and Diamond Firetail may also utilise woodland remnants within the study area on occasion.
Toolern Creek
Toolern Creek flows in a southerly direction across the study area. Creekline Grassy Woodland (River Red-gum) is present along the length of Toolern Creek (see above description), and the creek is bounded by rocky escarpments on both sides. The creek is up to 10 metres wide and water quality is poor to moderate. Aquatic vegetation is present including sedges, rushes, Water Ribbons (Triglochin sp.). Creekline vegetation supports low levels of ground debris such as logs, sticks and leaves. In some locations, particularly where the creek lies adjacent to residential Melton, there are numerous weeds and scattered refuse and rubbish.
Toolern Creek is considered to be of moderate value for fauna. Pacific Black Duck, Australian Wood Duck, Southern Bullfrog and Common Froglet were detected during the site assessment, and additional common native waterbirds, frogs and reptiles are likely to utilise the creek for breeding, foraging, dispersal and cover. Regionally significant Cunningham’s Skink is likely to utilise the creek escarpment habitat, and there is also potential for the nationally significant Growling Grass Frog to utilise the creek.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 24
Remnant Lignum wetlands - Corresponding EVCs: Lignum Swamp (EVC 104) and Plains Swampy Woodland/Lignum Swamp Complex (EVC 784)
There are several patches of Lignum Swamp along the railway reserve, and along Paynes Road in the far east of the study area. Plains Swampy Woodland/Lignum Swamp Complex is present on private property off Mount Cottrell Road immediately north of the railway line and at the southern boundary of the study area, and also on Alfred Road. Lignum Swamp consists of wetland dominated by Tangled Lignum Muehlenbeckia florulenta, while Plains Swampy Woodland/Lignum Swamp Complex (EVC 784) consists of an overstorey dominated by scattered River Red-gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis with a Tangled Lignum understorey. The condition of these remnants varies, from highly modified and disturbed (e.g. Paynes Road swamp) to fairly intact. The remnant to the north of the railway line on Mount Cottrell Road is in the best condition, with a thick understorey of Tangled Lignum and moderate levels of leaf litter, woody debris and surface rock. Woodland trees provide foraging and nesting habitat for a number of woodland birds and hollow-dependant species (see remnant woodland description above). Shrubby plants such as Lignum provide shelter for small birds (e.g. Superb Fairy-wren, Yellow-rumped Thornbill), along with concealment for Eastern Grey Kangaroo.
When inundated, the wetland provides potential habitat for numerous wetland-dependent bird species, and habitat for a range of frogs (e.g. regionally significant Common Spadefoot Toad).
Scattered remnant trees
Isolated remnant trees (River Red-gum and Grey Box) provide moderate habitat value for fauna. Many mature trees are scattered throughout the study area, with River Red-gum predominantly in the east and Grey Box to the west.
The native understorey vegetation has been totally removed and replaced by exotic grasses and weeds. Several of these trees support varying sized hollows.
Few fauna are likely to use this habitat, primarily woodland birds and birds adapted to cleared landscapes. Tree hollows provide a valuable roosting, nesting and foraging resource for a suite of birds such as Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, and micro-bats. Remnant trees also provide nesting sites and vantage points for raptors and suitable foraging habitat for a range of insectivorous and nectar-feeding birds.
Planted trees and shrubs
A small number of planted trees and exotic shrubs are present within the study area, predominantly along fencelines and within the vicinity of current residences or former house sites. Planted vegetation provides a foraging resource for birds, whilst also providing shelter and dispersal habitat for a suite of native fauna. In addition, mature trees provide nesting sites and vantage points for raptors and potentially support tree hollows. Low-growing shrubs provide habitat for smaller passerine birds such as wrens, thornbills and fantails.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 25
Artificial waterbodies (farm dams)
An unknown number of farm dams occur within the study area. Artificial waterbodies provide foraging habitat for several native fauna, including waterbirds, such as Australian Wood Duck and Pacific Black Duck, frogs, and a diversity of invertebrate species.
Native Grassland
Small patches of remnant native grassland remain in the study area, scattered along the railway reserve and near the junction of the rail reserve and Toolern Creek. There are also large areas of native grasses such as Wallaby Grass (Austrodanthonia sp.) that have regenerated on land that was formerly used for cropping, predominantly in the east of the study area.
Due to the small size of the grassland remnants and their isolation, few native species are likely to use this habitat, principally birds adapted to modified habitats such as Magpie-lark, Australian Magpie, Galah and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. Raptors (Brown Falcon, Nankeen Kestrel, Black-shouldered Kite) would search for prey items over this habitat, and introduced species (Common Starling, House Sparrow) were also prevalent in this habitat. The rail reserve also provides potential (albeit low likelihood) habitat for the nationally significant Striped Legless Lizard. The large areas of regenerated native grasses on private land also provide potential habitat (albeit low likelihood) for Striped Legless Lizard and Golden Sun Moth. However, previous land use (e.g. ploughing and cropping) is likely to have removed any animals that may have previously inhabited the area, and therefore there is a low likelihood of these nationally significant species occurring in regenerated grassland. Nevertheless, although these species are unlikely to occur in the area, their presence cannot be totally discounted.
Introduced Grassland
Introduced pasture/grassland occurs throughout the study area where remnant native vegetation has been removed, and/or where the soil has previously been disturbed. Much of the land within the study area has previously been cleared for agriculture, and is currently or has recently been used for livestock grazing, cropping activities or other industry.
Grassland comprises almost exclusively pasture grasses with small patches of native grasses typically less than a metre high. In some locations little or no surface rock remains, whereas in other locations some surface rock is still present. This habitat type is considered to be of low habitat value for fauna.
Few native species are known to use this habitat, principally birds adapted to modified habitats such as Magpie-lark, Australian Magpie, Galah and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. Raptors (Brown Falcon, Nankeen Kestrel, Black-shouldered Kite) would search for prey items over this habitat, and introduced species (Common Starling, House Sparrow) were also prevalent in this habitat.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 26
The large area of modified grassland in the north of the study area provides potential (albeit low likelihood) habitat for the nationally significant Striped Legless Lizard.
Although this habitat does not provide important habitat for fauna per se, it does provide dispersal opportunities for reptiles, frogs and potentially small mammals into higher quality habitats (i.e. remnant woodland) within the study area.
4.2 Significant Fauna
The following is a summary of the information provided in Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. (2008).
4.2.1 National
No nationally significant fauna were recorded in the study area during the present assessment.
Eight nationally significant fauna listed under the EPBC Act have previously been recorded from the local area (AVW) (Appendix 2). A further seven EPBC Act species not previously documented on the AVW, or habitat for these species, are identified as potentially occurring within a 10 kilometre radius of the study area (EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool) (Appendix 2). A description of the nationally significant species previously recorded within the study area is provided below (Table 1).
There is potential habitat (albeit low quality) for two nationally listed species, and a description is provided below.
Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar
The Striped Legless Lizard is a small reptile, up to 300 millimetres long. It is variable in colour, but most often grey-brown above, paler underneath, with a series of dark brown or black stripes running along the length of the body, starting at the neck (Cogger 1996). The head is darker than the rest of the body.
The species appears similar to a small snake, but can be differentiated by the presence of an easily visible ear opening behind the eye, which snakes lack.
This species inhabits lowland native grasslands, typically dominated by native tussock forming grass species such as Kangaroo Grass and spear grasses Austrostipa spp. It tends to occur near surface rock or rock piles, such as those found within the study area. It feeds on invertebrate prey and is considered a selective arthropod feeder. Before European settlement the species was probably quite common across the Victorian Volcanic Plains, although subsequent loss and modification of native grassland areas have reduced the available habitat for this species. In Victoria, the species primarily occurs around the basalt plains to the west of Melbourne, and in areas around Ballarat and Bendigo (Hadden 1995; AVW 2007).
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 27
The Striped Legless Lizard is listed as endangered in Victoria and is considered vulnerable on a national scale (DSE 2007). There are 23 records of this species in the local area documented on the AVW (2007), most recently from 1991.
Although Striped Legless Lizard was not recorded within the study area during the current assessment, there is potentially suitable habitat for this species in remnant native grassland scattered along the study area. This species may also use modified grassland within the study area, particularly where scattered piles of surface rock have been constructed adjacent to grassland.
Targeted surveys are currently being undertaken for Striped Legless Lizard within potentially suitable habitats within the precinct.
Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana
The Golden Sun Moth occurs in native grassland, generally dominated by greater than 40% cover of Wallaby Grass, in particular Austrodanthonia carphoides (DSE 2004) but may also inhabit areas dominated by Themeda triandra (Endersby and Koehler 2006). Prior to European settlement, the Golden Sun Moth was widespread and relatively continuous throughout its range, inhabiting grassy open woodlands and grassland, although it currently inhabits small isolated sites (DSE 2004). Individuals spend two or more years in an underground larval stage, associated with the root systems of grasses.
Adults emerge to breed during specific weather conditions from mid-November to mid- December, and live for approximately two days. It is speculated that populations not seen one year may emerge the next, which is consistent with the two-year larval stage of the species (Endersby and Koehler 2006). Golden Sun Moth is threatened by habitat loss, disturbance and fragmentation due to agricultural expansion and urbanisation. Populations have been isolated and fragmented, impeding the ability of the relatively immobile females to recolonise areas, thereby reducing the likelihood of genetic exchange (DSE 2004). The maximum flight distance of male Golden Sun Moths from breeding habitat has been reported to be 100 metres, although Endersby and Koehler (2006) contest males may fly as far as 400 metres.
No previous AVW records exist for this species in the local area, and the species was not detected during the current assessment. There are areas of suitable, sub-optimal habitat within the study area (Figure 6): remnant native grassland containing Themeda triandra and scattered Danthonia sp. which mainly occur within the area of the BioSite Reserves. However, these areas are isolated, small, and surrounded by exotic grassland/pasture, and the likelihood of occurrence is considered low.
Targeted surveys are currently being undertaken for Golden Sun Moth within potentially suitable habitats within the precinct.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 28
4.2.2 State
No state significant fauna were recorded within the study area during the present assessment. Thirty-four state significant fauna have previously been documented from within 10 kilometres of the study area on the AVW (Appendix 2). The likelihood of these species occurring in the study area is provided in Appendix 2.
These fauna comprise:
• Two mammal species: Brush-tailed Phascogale, Common Dunnart;
• Two birds primarily restricted to coastal or inter-tidal habitats: Caspian Tern, Common Sandpiper;
• Eleven wetland-dependent birds: Royal Spoonbill, Baillon’s Crake, Eastern Great Egret, Gull-billed Tern, Brolga, Little Egret, Blue-billed Duck, Australasian Shoveler, Hardhead, Musk Duck, Freckled Duck;
• Two diurnal raptors: White-bellied Sea-Eagle, Black Falcon;
• Three nocturnal raptors: Barking Owl, Powerful Owl, Masked Owl;
• Seven woodland birds: Hooded Robin, Crested Bellbird, Grey-crowned Babbler, Speckled Warbler, Brown Treecreeper, Painted Honeyeater, Diamond Firetail;
• One grassland bird: Red-chested Button-quail,
• One frog species: Brown Toadlet;
• One reptile: Tree Goanna; and,
• Four butterflies: Amethyst Hairstreak Butterfly, Fiery Jewel Butterfly, Southern Purple Azure Butterfly, Yellow Sedge-skipper.
Hardhead and Eastern Great Egret may on occasionally utilise Toolern Creek, while Australasian Shoveler, Freckled Duck and Musk Duck may utilise the creek on rare occasions.
Diamond Firetail and Brown Treecreeper have previously been recorded within the study area. Diamond Firetail may be a frequent visitor to remnant woodland, Brown Treecreeper and Speckled Warbler may be occasional visitors, and Crested Bellbird, Hooded Robin, and Grey-crowned Babbler may be rare visitors.
Black Falcon may visit the area on rare occasions, while nocturnal raptors Barking Owl and Powerful Owl may visit woodland areas on rare occasions. Brown Toadlet may be found in the study area occasionally to rarely, in low-lying areas such as Lignum Swamp.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 29
4.2.3 Regional and local
No regionally significant fauna were recorded during the assessment. At least 18 regionally significant fauna species have been recorded from the local area.
Common Spadefoot Toad is likely to be a resident of the study area, as the species was heard calling in November of this year from a wetland on Rees Road approximately 300 metres north of the study area (Organ pers. obs.). Cunningham’s Skink and Little Whip Snake are also possible residents of the study area.
There is also potential for Nankeen Night Heron to use Toolern Creek, particularly in areas with aquatic vegetation. Spotted Harrier, Black-eared Cuckoo and Black-chinned Honeyeater may utilise woodland remnants.
All other native fauna (primarily forest or woodland dependent birds) are of local significance, as they are not listed as rare or threatened on a national, state and regional level.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 30
Table 1. Fauna of national conservation significance either recorded within (AVW), or predicted to occur within the study area EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST).
Species Description Con. Status Records in the local Occurrence with the study area area (AVW)
NATIONALLY SIGNIFICANT FAUNA
Plains- This cryptic bird was once distributed widely across native grassland V, cr, L Plains-wanderer has This species is may be a vagrant visitor to the study area. wanderer – areas but now rarely occurs in the Melbourne area. It now primarily Endangered under previously been There was a recently confirmed record of this species a in Pedionomus occurs in large areas of remnant grassland such as Terrick Terrick the Action Plan recorded on one the local area (i.e. near Eynesbury Estate, Ballan Road, torquatus National Park, in the north of the state. occasion (1974) in the approximately 25 kilometres north west of Werribee). local area (AVW)
Australian Australian Painted Snipe is generally found in shallow inland V, cr, L Australian Painted There are no suitable wetland habitats within the study Painted Snipe wetlands (freshwater or brackish) (Garnett and Crowley 2000), and Vulnerable under Snipe has previously area, therefore it is unlikely that this species is a - Rostratula is a cryptic bird, which is often overlooked. It is believed to be the Action Plan been recorded on one resident within the study area. benghalensis nomadic, temporarily occupying areas where suitable habitat exists. occasion (1989) in the There are few records of this species throughout Victoria’s western local area. district. It prefers shallow wetlands that are well-vegetated, where it nests in dense tussocks of reeds, sedges or rushes on muddy islands. The Australian Painted Snipe feeds on wetland vegetation and invertebrates (Marchant and Higgins 1993). Swift Parrot - The Swift Parrot is a small to medium parrot, which resembles E, e, L Swift Parrot has While the study area supports remnant mature eucalypts Lathamus lorikeets in its behaviour (noisy, active and conspicuous) and flight. Endangered under previously been which may be used by Swift Parrots on rare occasions, it discolor It breeds in Tasmania and on some of the Bass Strait islands in the Action Plan recorded in the local does not constitute important habitat for this species (i.e. summer and migrates to south-eastern mainland states in winter. In area on 10 occasions, large numbers of birds area unlikely to regularly visit the Victoria, it primarily occurs north of the divide throughout Box- most recently in 2001 study area during migration). Ironbark Woodland and dry forests where it principally feeds on (AVW) flowering eucalypts, psyllids and lerp. This species is also occasional observed in suburban parks and gardens where it feeds almost exclusively on nectar of planted eucalypts. Grey-headed This species is a large frugivorous bat that was formerly an autumn- V, v, L Grey-headed Flying- While small numbers may fly over the study area Flying-fox – winter visitor to areas throughout Victoria. However, it has now Vulnerable under fox has previously between major camp and roosting sites, or periodically Pteropus established two permanent colonies in Victoria – Yarra River, the Action Plan been recorded on one stop and feed on flowering eucalypts, an ecologically poliocephalus Ivanhoe and Dowell Creek on Mallacoota Inlet, East Gippsland. This occasion (1968) in the significant proportion of the population is unlikely to species can travel long distance at night in search of food, and small local area (AVW) regularly use habitats within the study area. aggregations are known to forage widely throughout the state (i.e. quite nomadic). Striped Striped Legless Lizard inhabits lowland native grasslands, typically V, e, L Striped Legless Lizard The modified grassland area in the north of the study Legless Lizard dominated by native tussock forming grass species such as Vulnerable under has previously been area provides potential habitat. Suitable habitat structure – Delma impar Kangaroo Grass and spear grasses Austrostipa spp. The species the Action Plan recorded in the local is present (tussocky grasses and presence of surface feeds on invertebrate prey and is considered as a selective area on 23 occasions, rock) and although the site is weedy it still comprises arthropod feeder. Before European settlement the species was most recently in 1991 suitable habitat for the species. However, previous land probably quite common across the Victorian Volcanic Plains, (AVW) use appears to have included ploughing and cropping,
31 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Species Description Con. Status Records in the local Occurrence with the study area area (AVW) although subsequent loss and modification of native grassland areas which is likely to have removed animals inhabiting the have reduced the available habitat for this species. In Victoria, the area. In addition, the site is not adjacent to any species primarily occurs around the basalt plains to the west of significant areas of suitable habitat from where lizards Melbourne, and areas around Ballarat and Bendigo (AVW, Hadden could recolonise the site. However, although the species 1995). It is a highly cryptic species and is known to utilise is unlikely to occur in the area, the presence of Striped substantially modified grasslands as long as the structural Legless Lizards cannot be totally discounted. There is complexity (tussocky grasses) is present. also potential suitable habitat along the rail reserve within the study area. Growling The Growling Grass Frog was once widespread throughout south- V, e, L There are 41 In 1988 this species was recorded at the now highly Grass Frog - eastern Australia, but over the past 20 years its range has Vulnerable under documented records modified Lignum Swamp on Paynes Road, and Litoria contracted throughout many areas due to a number of threatening the Action Plan of the species from immediately outside the study area to the east of Paynes raniformis processes. In Victoria, this species is widely distributed throughout the local area, the road and to the west of Mount Cottrell Road (Figure 7). most regions, with the exception of Mallee and Alpine areas where most recent from 2001 There are also numerous additional records from the climatic and habitat conditions are not suitable. The species prefers (AVW). Of these, one surrounding area. This species prefers permanent or permanent or semi permanent waterbodies to breed, although is has record is from within semi-permanent waterbodies, with areas of open water also been known to successfully breed in ephemeral waterbodies the study area and and vegetation with particular structural attributes. The (Aaron Organ pers. comm.). two are on the study study area is lacking in suitable habitat for this species, area boundary (1988). however there is potential (albeit low likelihood) for Growling Grass Frog to utilise Toolern Creek on occasion. Macquarie The Macquarie Perch reaches a maximum size of approximately 46 E, e, L There are three historic This species was historically recorded from the current Perch - centimetres, ranging from a silvery-grey to olive-brown colour (Allen Density Dependant records of the species location of the Melton Reservoir (Figure 7). There is no Macquaria et al. 2002). This species prefers slow-flowing and deep, rocky under the Action Plan from the local area, the suitable habitat for this species within the study area. australasica pools in cool, clear waters. In Victoria it occurs in the Murray River most recent record and its tributaries, and in the Yarra River system (Allen et al. 2002; from 1926 (AVW). DEWHA 2007). An important population of this species occurs in the Yarra River near Warrandyte in Victoria (DEWHA 2007). Smoky Mouse The Smoky Mouse occurs in the eastern Highlands, East Gippsland, E, L There have been no There is no suitable habitat for this species within the – Pseudomys Otway Range, Snowfields, and the Grampians. It is unknown documented records study area. fumeus whether the species still persists at the later site. This species has from the local area. been recorded from a variety of vegetation communities, ranging form coastal heath and heathy woodland in East Gippsland to subalpine heath and dry forest. The understorey vegetation at sites primarily comprising heathy species (Ford, et. al. 2003), with a positive relationship between fire frequency and intensity, and the presence of the species at a given site Spot-tailed The Spot-tailed Quoll is the largest surviving marsupial carnivore on V, e, L There have been no There is no suitable habitat for this species within the Quoll – the mainland of Australia. Historically, this species had a broad documented records study area. Dasyurus distribution in Victoria, excluding the Mallee, Wimmera, Northern from the local area. maculatus Plains and Alpine areas (Mansergh 1995). It now survives in several maculatus discrete areas primarily in eastern Victoria, the Otway Ranges, Strzelecki Ranges, Macedon Ranges, and South-western Victoria (e.g. Mt Eccles National Park).
32 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Species Description Con. Status Records in the local Occurrence with the study area area (AVW) Regent Regent Honeyeaters are highly mobile species, rarely observed at a E, e, L There have been no The study area supports remnant eucalypt woodland Honeyeater – particular site for extended periods of time unless breeding. This Endangered under documented records which may provide highly marginal habitat for Regent Xanthomyza species was formerly distributed within about 300 km of the eastern the Action Plan from the local area. Honeyeater, however the majority this does not phrygia Australian coast from about 100 km north of Brisbane to Adelaide constitute important habitat for this species (i.e. large (Menkhorst 1993). In Victoria, it occurs mainly in dry open forest numbers of birds area unlikely to regularly visit the study and woodland on inland slopes of the Great Dividing Range. While area). they also occasionally visit coastal East Gippsland and areas around Melbourne, the key location in Victoria where the species frequents is Chiltern - Mt Pilot National Park (northeast Victoria). It is believed that between 70 and 100 birds remain in Victoria. Grassland The Grassland Earless Dragon inhabits native grassland with a E, cr, L There have been no There is marginal habitat for this species, which is Earless Dragon preference for tussock grasslands dominated by wallaby grasses Vulnerable under documented records unlikely to occur within the study area. - Austrodanthonia spp., Spear grasses Austrostipa spp., Poa Tussock the Action Plan from the local area. Tympanpcryptis Poa sieberiana, Red Grass Bothriochloa macra, and occasionally pinguicolla Kangaroo Grass Themeda australis (Robertson and Cooper 2000). The range of Grassland Earless Dragon has undergone a dramatic decline, with the last confirmed records in the Melbourne area from the 1960’s. More recent (1988-1990) but unconfirmed sightings in Melbourne are from the upper Merri Creek, Holden Flora and Fauna Reserve in Sunbury, Little River in Werribee, and from Craigieburn (Robertson and Cooper 2000). Major threats to this species are habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation, and impacts from introduced animals. Australian Concern about this species has arisen from the extinction of its only V, v, L There have been no This species is unlikely to occur within the study area. Grayling close relative, the New Zealand Grayling, without warning and with documented records Prototroctes no explanation. Much of the basic biological information of this from the local area. maraena species remains unknown, particularly regarding population dynamics, threatening processes and recruitment processes. In Victoria it occupies coastal drainages south of the Great Dividing Range in clear, moderate to fast flowing water, in the upper reaches of rivers (Allen et al. 2002). It is typically located in gravelling pools, and often detected in small to large aggregations downstream of in- stream barriers (e.g. weirs). Dwarf Galaxias This relatively small (20-40 mm), short-lived fish is often found in V, v, L There have been no This species is unlikely to occur within the study area. Galaxiella shallow water amongst heavy vegetation at the edges of still, or slow documented records pusilla flowing water (Allen et al. 2002). Is inhabits a range of waterbody from the local area. types including small ponds, billabongs, swamps, backwaters and drains. The Dwarf Galaxias rarely occurs in areas where the introduced Plague Minnow Gambusia holbrooki has become established, and this species is often only found in ephemeral wetlands. It has a patchy distribution within its range, and whilst it may be locally abundant in a few areas it has suffered greatly from loss of habitat due to drainage of wetlands and the spread of Plague Minnow.
33 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Species Description Con. Status Records in the local Occurrence with the study area area (AVW) Golden Sun The Golden Sun Moth is a small diurnal moth that occurs in CE, e, L There have been no The large areas of regenerated native grasses provide Moth - temperate grasslands and grassy woodlands dominated by tussocks documented records potential habitat. Suitable habitat structure is present Synemon plana of wallaby grass. It prefers areas of bare ground interspersed with from the local area on (tussocky Danthonia grasses). However, previous land grassy tussocks for cover. Females rarely fly (O’Dwyer et al. 2000; the AVW. In 2006, the utilisation appears to have included ploughing and DEWHA 2008). species was detected cropping, which is likely to have removed animals in grassland inhabiting the area. In addition, the site is not adjacent to approximately 2 any significant areas of suitable habitat, and Golden Sun kilometres to the SE of Moth is unlikely to recolonise the site from distant the study area (Hamer locations. However, although the species is unlikely to and Hynes 2007). occur in the area, its presence cannot be totally discounted. There is also some potential suitable habitat along the rail reserve within the study area. Notes: CE = Critically Endangered, E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable (EPBC Act), ce = critically endangered, e = endangered, v = vulnerable, nt = near threatened (DSE 2007), L = Listed under the FFG Act
34 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
4.2.4 Management/protection measures for fauna within the precinct
Potential direct impacts to native fauna values within the study area may include: • Decline or loss of potential habitat (albeit marginal habitat) for nationally significant fauna species including Striped Legless Lizard, Growling Grass Frog, Swift Parrot and Grey-headed Flying-fox;
• If remnant eucalypts are removed or if remnant vegetation undergoes further disturbance, the decline or loss of potential habitat (albeit marginal habitat) for fauna species of state significance (Diamond Firetail, Brown Treecreeper, Speckled Warbler and Black Falcon) and regional significance (Nankeen Night Heron, Spotted Harrier and Black-eared Cuckoo);
• If there are further changes to the natural hydrological processes of the land, in particular the flooding of ephemeral wetlands such as Lignum Swamp (e.g. frequency of flooding, water volume, intensity of flooding, water temperature and water quality), this could result in the decline or loss of potential habitat (albeit marginal habitat) for frog species Brown Toadlet (state significance) and Common Spadefoot Toad (regional significance), state significant waterbirds including Australasian Shoveler, Eastern Great Egret, Royal Spoonbill and Hardhead, and the regionally significant Little Whip Snake;
• If there are further changes to the natural hydrological processes of the land, in particular the drainage of water into Toolern Creek (e.g. frequency of flooding, water volume, intensity of flooding, water temperature and water quality), this could result in the decline or loss of habitat for several native fauna species both within the study area and downstream;
• Increased urbanisation along Toolern Creek and in the vicinity of remnant native vegetation could result in increased predation of native fauna by domestic animals;
• Increased urbanisation may lead to increased levels of rubbish, refuse and weed incursion along Toolern Creek and native vegetation remnants, leading to decreases in habitat quality; and,
• Decreases in population sizes of local fauna species.
Indirect effects on adjacent areas are also possible if any construction activities and drainage are not appropriately managed, and these may include:
• Indirect impacts to adjoining native vegetation/habitat, and potential offsite affects such as alterations to the flooding regimes and/or water quality entering nearby wetlands and drainage lines;
• Potential for further spread of weeds and soil pathogens from on-site activities; and,
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 35
• Disturbance to wildlife from increased human activity and increased noise in the area.
Measures that could be used to minimise impacts upon terrestrial values present within the study area associated with future development include:
• Avoiding all areas of native vegetation, particularly along Toolern Creek the low-lying areas and the vegetation on the edges of the study area;
• A suitable buffer of least a 50 metres (preferably fenced) is recommended between the Toolern Creek escarpment and any development of the surrounding area to limit further habitat degradation and potential predation of native fauna. However, the width of the buffer is likely to vary depending upon the location of native vegetation and topography, and may not necessarily be consistently 50 metres wide along the entire length. A standard post and wire fence (or rabbit proof fence) should be constructed around this buffer to limit human access, and if possible fencing should exclude pets from entering the wetland area. Weed control should be undertaken in this area;
• The treatment of the buffer area should include indigenous grasses and scattered eucalypts, although natural regeneration beyond the existing areas of native vegetation should be encouraged. If revegetation is to be undertaken, plants should be locally indigenous species appropriate to Riverina Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55_62) or Creekline Grassy Woodland EVC (68), and preferably be sourced from local plant stock;
• It is recommended that a buffer zone of at least 20 metres be implemented around the wetlands within the study area, to limit the further degradation and potential predation of native fauna. A standard post and wire fence (or rabbit proof fence) should be constructed around this buffer to limit human access, and if possible fencing should exclude pets from entering the wetland area. Wetlands can be revegetated, or natural regeneration could be encouraged to increase the habitat value of wetlands. If possible, fencing should exclude pets from entering remnants to limit predation of native fauna. Weed control should also be undertaken in these areas;
• Install fencing to prevent the public and livestock access to patches of remnant vegetation, including along the rail reserve. Remnants can be revegetated, or natural regeneration could be encouraged to increase the habitat value of remnants. If possible, fencing should exclude pets from entering remnants to limit predation of native fauna. Weed control should also be undertaken in these areas;
• Consider linking remaining patches of remnant vegetation by revegetation, to protect remaining remnant vegetation, create wildlife corridors and increase the area of available habitat for fauna. If revegetation is to be undertaken, plants should be locally indigenous species appropriate to the relevant EVC, and preferably be sourced from local plant stock;
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 36
• If any parts of the rail reserve or modified grassland in the north of the study area are proposed to be disturbed, targeted fauna surveys for Striped Legless Lizard may be required;
• Natural hydrological processes should be maintained. For example, water entering wetlands should not contain elevated levels of nutrients, chemicals or other pollutants, or be increased or decreased in volume;
• Ensure that development does not increase the frequency of flooding events and that the water drains away naturally (i.e. there are no drains constructed to remove water from the wetland);
• Educate future residents about the ecological value of adjoining remnant vegetation and about the issues of environmental weeds and pets on these ecosystems;
• All contractors should be aware of areas of ecological value and penalties should be imposed if vegetation is removed or disturbed without permission, or outside the area of works;
• Best practice sedimentation control measures should be undertaken in the vicinity of the wetland, drainage lines and depressions;
• Areas of ecological value should be fenced and identified as ‘no go’ areas prior to and during construction; and,
• Where possible, construction stockpiles, machinery, roads, and other infrastructure should be placed away from areas supporting native vegetation and/or drainage lines.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 37
5 NET GAIN ANALYSIS
Areas of remnant indigenous vegetation and a number of Old Trees were identified within the precinct. As such as Net Gain analysis was conducted in areas of both vegetation patches (where the understorey vegetative cover has a greater than 25% cover of indigenous species) and trees (in patches or parcels).
Net Gain is an overall outcome where native vegetation and habitat gains are greater than vegetation and habitat losses. Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management – A Framework for Action (NRE 2002) (‘the Framework’) has defined a three-step approach for applying Net Gain to protection and clearance decisions. Emphasis is placed on the first two steps, and only after these two steps have been taken should offsets (actions undertaken to achieve commensurate gains) be considered (NRE 2002). The three-step approach is:
1. To avoid adverse impacts, particularly through vegetation clearance. 2. If impacts cannot be avoided, to minimise impacts through appropriate consideration in planning processes and expert input to project design or management.
3. Identify appropriate offset options. Once steps 1 and 2 have been considered, offsets can then be calculated based on any permitted vegetation removal. Once the overall losses are known, then offset objectives can be calculated according to Table 6 of the Framework (NRE 2002) and considering the regional Native Vegetation Plans. Offsets for any permitted vegetation loss can be achieved by improvements in the quality or extent of native vegetation in a selected ‘offset area’.
5.1 Habitat Hectare Calculations
The following ‘habitat hectare’ calculations are based on several flora and fauna assessments conducted by Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. (2008) and Brett Lane and Associates (2004, 2007).
Remnants of six EVCs are present within the study area – Creekline Grassy Woodland, Plains Woodland, Plains Grassy Woodland, Plains Grassland, Lignum Swamp and Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex. Separate habitat zones are all regarded as remnants of indigenous vegetation but each has different characteristics in regards to species quantity, composition and quality (Table 2).
Two additional EVCs, Lignum Wetland and Plains Grassy Woodland (Riverina) which has since been renamed Lignum Swamp (EVC 104) and Plains Woodland (EVC 803) have also been recorded in this area (Brett Lane and Associates 2004). As part of the assessment Plains Swampy Woodland EVC Benchmark was used instead of the wetland EVC Benchmark for Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 38
Table 2. Habitat Hectare Assessment Results
EVC Name CGW PW PW PW PW PGW PGW PG PG LS PSW/LS# PW^ PW PW PW CGW PW LS** CGW Habitat Zone (HZ) CGW1 PW1 PW2 PW3 PW4 PGW1 PGW2 PG1 PG2 LS1 PSW/LS PW5 PW6 PW7 PW8 2 PW9 LS2 EVC Number 68 803 803 803 803 55 55 132_63 132_63 104 784 803 803 803 803 68 803 104 Assessment undertaken by: EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP EP BLA BLA BLA BLA BLA BLA BLA Total Area of Habitat Zone (ha) 34.05 5.95 9.55 0.67 5.85 10.47 1.8 8.48 8.48 3.95 6.29 9.99 0.37 0.2 0.18 4.77 1.28 3.28 Max Score Score Large Old Trees 10 4 4 1 10 4 5 0 N/A N/A N/A 1 4 0 4 4 6 4 8
Canopy Cover 5 3 5 0 5 5 2 2 N/A N/A N/A 4 5 5 5 5 4 5 5
Lack of Weeds 15 0 4 9 9 6 6 6 6 6 2 6 4 4 4 4 6 4 4
Understorey 25 10 0 10 15 10 5 15 15 10 5 5 0 0 0 0 5 0 15 Site Condition Recruitment 10 3 0 3 10 0 5 10 6 3 6 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 10
Organic Matter 5 3 0 3 5 5 3 3 3 2 0 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 4 Logs 5 2 0 2 2 2 0 2 N/A N/A N/A 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 X Treeless multiplier 1.36 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 41 29 18 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Patch Size 10 3 4 4 1 2 1 1 4 1 1 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1
Neighbourhood 10 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 value
Landscape Distance to Core 5 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 3 3 3 3 0 Habitat Score 100 31 19 32 58 34 27 39 46 30 21 28 21 13 18 18 31 17 47 Habitat Score as above= /100 0.31 0.19 0.32 0.58 0.34 0.27 0.39 0.46 0.30 0.21 0.28 0.21 0.13 0.18 0.18 0.31 0.17 0.47 Habitat Zone area (ha) 34.05 5.95 9.55 0.67 5.85 10.47 1.79 8.48 0.49 3.94 6.29 9.99 0.37 0.20 0.18 4.78 1.28 3.28
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 39
Habitat Hectares (score x area) 10.56 1.13 3.06 0.39 1.99 2.83 0.70 3.90 0.15 0.83 1.76 2.10 0.05 0.04 0.03 1.48 0.22 1.54 Bioregion VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP VVP EVC Conservation Status EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN EN Conservation Status x Very Very Very Habitat Score High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High Threatened Species Very Rating* High Med Low Low Low Low Low High High Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Other Site Attribute Rating N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Overall Conservation Significance (highest Very Very Very
Conservation Significance rating) High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High No. of Large Old Trees within Habitat Zone 151 18 9 0 23 31 2 1 0 1 8 42 0 1 4 19 2 0
Notes: CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland, PW = Plains Woodland, PGW = Plains Grassy Woodland, PG = Plains Grassland, LS = Lignum Swamp, PSW/LS = Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp, VVP = Victorian Volcanic Plain, EN = Endangered, N/A= Not Applicable. *Threatened species rating relates to the presence of threatened species within the habitat zone. In this instance, the threatened species considered include Austral Tobacco, Fragrant Saltbush and Buloke as well as previous records of Purple Diuris. # Plains Swampy Woodland EVC Benchmark was used instead of the wetland EVC Benchmark for Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex. ** LS = Lignum Wetland, now known as Lignum Swamp (EVC 104).
40 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
5.2 Scattered Tree calculations
A scattered tree analysis was conducted within the study area. All scattered trees were measured and assessed with the results tabulated below (Table 3) (Figure 2 and 5). The conservation significance is based on the conservation status of the species and/or EVC in accordance with DSE (2006a). Further information regarding location of scattered trees according to Parcel Number can be found in Appendix 5 (Table A6.1).
Table 3. Quantification of Scattered Trees
Conservation Significance VLOT LOT MOT OT Total Very High 4 5 3 - 12 High 35 74 57 2 168 Low - - - 96 96 Total 39 79 60 98 276 Notes: VLOT = Very Large Old Tree, LOT = Large Old Tree, MOT = Medium Old Tree, OT = Other tree based on relevant EVC Benchmark. Conservation significance of scattered trees based on DSE (2006a pg. 10), EVC conservation status and species significance.
5.3 Summary of Habitat Hectare Calculations
Below are the combined results for the entire precinct based on all previous ecological assessment results provided above. Within the study area there is an estimated combined total of 32.76 habitat hectares of High and Very High conservation significance native vegetation. This comprises:
• 3.90 habitat hectares of Very High conservation significance Plains Grassland with one Large Old Tree;
• 0.39 habitat hectares of Very High conservation significance Plains Woodland;
• 1.54 habitat hectares of Very High conservation significance Lignum Swamp;
• 0.15 habitat hectares of High conservation significance Plains Grassland;
• 12.04 habitat hectares of High conservation significance Creekline Grassy Woodland with 170 Large Old Trees;
• 8.62 habitat hectares of High conservation significance Plains Woodland with 99 Large Old Trees;
• 3.53 habitat hectares of High conservation significance Plains Grassy Woodland with 33 Large Old Trees;
• 0.83 habitat hectares of High conservation significance Lignum Swamp with one Large Old Tree; and,
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 41
• 1.76 habitat hectares of high conservation significance Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp Complex with eight Large Old Trees.
Within the study area there is an estimated total of 276 scattered trees of Low to Very High conservation significance comprising:
• 4 Very Large Old Trees, 5 Large Old Trees, 3 Medium Old Trees of Very High conservation significance:
• 35 Very Large Old Trees, 74 Large Old Trees, 57 Medium Old Trees, 2 Small (other) Trees of High conservation significance; and
• 96 Other Trees of Low conservation significance.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
6 NATIVE VEGETATION TO BE RETAINED AND REMOVED
The following results are based on a combination of all previous assessments conducted within the precinct (Section 4.1.). Further information regarding retention/removal of native vegetation according to Parcel Number is provided below (Appendix 4).
6.1 Areas Proposed to be Retained
Approximately 94 hectares, comprising approximately 29 habitat hectares of High to Very High conservation significance remnant vegetation is proposed to be retained within the precinct (Table 4). Further information regarding retention of vegetation according to Parcel Number is provided below (Appendix 4).
6.2 Areas Proposed to be Removed
Approximately 14 hectares, comprising approximately 4 habitat hectares of High to Very High conservation significance remnant vegetation is proposed to be removed within the precinct (Table 5). Further information regarding retention of vegetation according to Parcel Number is provided below (Appendix 4).
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Table 4. Quantification of Habitat Zones to be retained within precinct (including Stockland land)
Habitat Zone CGW1 CGW2 LS1 LS2 PG 1 PG 2 PGW1 PGW2 PSW/LS PW1 PW2 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW6 PW7 PW8 PW9 132_6 EVC No. 68 68 104 104 132_63 55 55 784 803 803 803 803 803 803 803 803 803 3 Conservation Very Very Very High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High Status High High High Area - Other 28.28 2.64 0.74 3.28 7.85 0.00 8.45 1.48 6.02 5.54 9.43 0.66 5.80 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Land (ha) Area - Stockland 0.00 1.96 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 9.93 0.37 0.20 0.11 1.26 Land (ha) Total Area 28.28 4.6 0.43 3.28 7.85 0.00 8.45 1.48 6.02 5.54 9.43 0.66 5.80 9.93 0.37 0.20 0.11 1.26 (ha) Habitat 0.31 0.31 0.21 0.47 0.46 0.30 0.27 0.39 0.28 0.19 0.32 0.58 0.34 0.21 0.13 0.18 0.18 0.17 Score Habitat 8.77 1.43 0.09 1.54 3.61 0.00 2.28 0.58 1.69 1.05 3.02 0.38 1.97 2.09 0.05 0.04 0.02 0.21 Hectares
Notes: CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland, PW = Plains Woodland, PGW = Plains Grassy Woodland, PG = Plains Grassland, LS = Lignum Swamp.
44 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Table 5. Quantification of Habitat Zones and Patches to be removed within precinct (including Stockland land)
Habitat Zone CGW1 CGW2 LS1 LS2 PG 1 PG 2 PGW1 PGW2 PSW/LS PW1 PW2 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW6 PW7 PW8 PW9 132_6 EVC No. 68 68 104 104 132_63 55 55 784 803 803 803 803 803 803 803 803 803 3 Conservation Very Very Very High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High Status High High High Area - Other 5.77 0.10 3.56 0.00 0.63 0.49 2.02 0.32 0.27 0.41 0.12 0.01 0.05 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Land (ha) Area - Stockland 0.00 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.06 0.00 0.00 0.07 0.02 Land (ha) Total Area 5.77 0.17 3.52 0.00 0.63 0.49 2.02 0.32 0.27 0.41 0.12 0.01 0.05 0.06 0.00 0.00 0.07 0.02 (ha) Habitat 0.31 0.31 0.21 0.47 0.46 0.30 0.27 0.39 0.28 0.19 0.32 0.58 0.34 0.21 0.13 0.18 0.18 0.17 Score Habitat 1.79 0.05 0.74 0.00 0.29 0.15 0.55 0.12 0.07 0.08 0.04 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00 Hectares Notes: CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland, PW = Plains Woodland, PGW/LS = Plains Grassy Woodland/Lignum Swamp complex, PG = Plains Grassland, LS = Lignum Swamp.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 45
6.3 Large Old Trees in Patches to be Retained
Two hundred and forty-six Large Old Trees in patches of High to Very High conservation significance are proposed to be retained within the precinct (Table 6). Further information regrading retention of Large Old Trees in patches according to Parcel is provided below (Appendix 4).
6.4 Large Old Trees in Patches to be Removed
Fifty-eight Large Old Trees in patches of High to Very High conservation significance are proposed to be removed within the precinct (Table 7). Further information regrading removal of Large Old Trees in patches according to Parcel Number is provided below (Appendix 4).
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 46
Table 6. Quantification of Large Old Trees in Habitat Zones to be retained within precinct (including Stockland land)
CGW CGW PGW PSW/ Habitat Zone LS1 LS2 PG 1 PG 2 PGW2 PW1 PW2 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW6 PW7 PW8 PW9 1 2 1 LS Stockland Land 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 42 0 1 2 2 Other Land 107 10 1 0 1 0 22 1 8 17 9 0 23 0 0 0 0 0 Total 107 19 1 0 1 0 22 1 8 17 9 0 23 42 0 1 2 2
Notes: CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland, PW = Plains Woodland, PGW/LS = Plains Grassy Woodland/Lignum Swamp complex, PG = Plains Grassland, LS = Lignum Swamp.
Table 7. Quantification of Large Old Trees in Habitat Hectare patches to be removed within precinct (including Stockland land)
CGW CGW PGW PSW/ Habitat Zone LS1 LS2 PG 1 PG 2 PGW2 PW1 PW2 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW6 PW7 PW8 PW9 1 2 1 LS Stockland Land 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 Other Land 44 0 0 0 0 0 9 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 44 0 0 0 0 0 9 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0
Notes: CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland, PW = Plains Woodland, PGW/LS = Plains Grassy Woodland/Lignum Swamp complex, PG = Plains Grassland, LS = Lignum Swamp.
47 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
6.5 Scattered Trees proposed to be Retained and Removed
Two hundred and seventy six Scattered Trees are present within the precinct area. Of these trees 112 are proposed to be retained, comprising 20 Very Large Old Trees, 38 Large Old Trees, 25 Medium Old Trees and 29 Other Trees (Table 8).
One hundred and sixty four Large Old Trees are proposed to be removed within the precinct. These include 19 Very Large Old Trees, 41 Large Old Trees, 35 Medium Old Trees and 69 Other Trees (Table 11). Further information regrading retention of Scattered Trees in patches according to Parcel Number can be found in Appendix 5 (Table A6.1).
Table 8. Quantification of Scattered Trees to be retained and removed in precinct
Retained Removed Total VLOT 20 19 39 LOT 38 41 79 MOT 25 35 60 OT 29 69 98 Total 112 164 276
48 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
7 NET GAIN CALCULATIONS
7.1 Gains Required to Account for Vegetation Losses
Once steps 1 and 2 of the Net Gain Policy have been considered, (i.e. avoidance and minimisation of native vegetation loss), then offsets or Net Gain targets can be calculated for any permitted vegetation clearance. Net Gain targets or offsets can be calculated according to Appendix 4, Table 6 within the Framework (NRE 2002) or the Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006).
7.1.1 Habitat hectare zones
‘The Framework’ states if clearing is permitted, at least 2.0 times the calculated loss of Very High conservation significance vegetation and at least 1.5 times the loss of High conservation significance vegetation is required as the net outcome. Offset calculations and targets for the removal of habitat hectare zones and Large Old Trees in patches have been calculated below (Table 9).
The removal of any native vegetation of ‘Very High’ conservation significance may require Ministerial Approval under the Native Vegetation Framework (2006), and must always be referred to the DSE.
Western Plains Grassland has been recently listed under the EPBC Act as a ‘threatened’ vegetation community. The removal of Plains Grassland of any conservation significance may require a referral to the Commonwealth Environment Minister under the EPBC Act. In order to determine whether a referral is required the proponent must correspond with the Department of Environment Water Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA).
Table 9. Net Gain habitat hectare and Large Old Tree targets in zones and targets in patches
Habitat Hectares Zones Large Old Trees in Habitat Hectare Patches Net Gain Recruited Protected Multiplier* Multiplier* Multiplier* Total to be Total to be Habitat Ha Target EVC Significance Total Losses Total Losses (Habitat Ha) Conservation Total Losses in in Total Losses Net Gain Target Creekline Grassy High 1.84 1.5 2.76 44 4 176 20 880 Woodland
High Lignum Swamp 0.74 1.5 1.11 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Very high Lignum Swamp 1.54 2 3.08 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
High Plains Grassland 0.15 1.5 0.23 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
49 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Habitat Hectares Zones Large Old Trees in Habitat Hectare Patches Net Gain Recruited Protected Multiplier* Multiplier* Multiplier* Total to be Total to be Habitat Ha Target EVC Significance Total Losses Total Losses (Habitat Ha) Conservation Total Losses in in Total Losses Net Gain Target
Very high Plains Grassland 0.29 2 0.58 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Plains Grassy High 0.67 1.5 1.01 10 4 40 20 200 Woodland Plains Swampy High Woodland/Lignum 0.07 1.5 0.11 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Swamp Complex High Plains Woodland 0.16 1.5 0.24 3 4 12 20 60
Very high Plains Woodland 0.01 2 0.02 0 8 0 40 0
Total 5.82 9.14 57 228 1140
Notes: *These multipliers relate to Table 6 of the Framework, N/A = Not Applicable.
50 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
7.1.2 Scattered Trees
Based on the Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006) there are two strategies, ‘protect and recruit’ or ‘recruit only’, which can be considered in order to offset the permitted loss of old trees. The following protect and recruit and recruit only rations have been applied for the proposed losses of scattered trees in order to meet the requirements of the Net Gain policy (Table 10).
‘The Framework’ does not stipulate offset targets for the loss of Other Trees (i.e. smaller than 0.75 times the DBH of a large tree as defined by relevant EVC Benchmark). However, as gains are still required to be commensurate with losses as per the principles of the Net Gain Policy, Other Trees proposed to be removed within the precinct are to be offset via replacement ratios described in Table 3.4D, Appendix 3.4.4. of the Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006).
To offset the loss of 164 Scattered Old Trees (Very Large, Large and Medium of varying conservation significance) within the precinct, 343 old trees are required to be protected and 2,150 new plants are to be recruited. Alternatively 10,900 new plants can be recruited if the ‘recruit only’ option is utilised.
Table 10. Net Gain scattered tree targets based on the Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006) – ‘not including Other Trees
Number of Protect and Recruit' ‘Recruit only' Conservation Trees to be Tree Size Significance Removed Multiplier Offset Multiplier Offset Multiplier Offset VLOT Very High 2 10 20 50 100 350 700 High 17 5 85 30 510 180 3060 Medium - 4 - 20 - 140 - Low - 2 - 10 - 70 - LOT Very High 1 8 8 40 40 240 240 High 40 4 160 20 800 120 4800 Medium - 2 - 15 - 65 - Low - 1 - 10 - 35 - MOT Very High - 4 - 20 - 100 - High 35 2 70 20 700 60 2100 Medium - 1 - 15 - 35 - Low - 1 - 10 - 30 - Total 164 343 2,150 10,900 Notes: *These multipliers relate to the PPWCMA (2006); VLOT = Very Large Old Tree; MOT = Medium Old Tree.
51 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
The Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006) stipulates when larger numbers of Other Trees are proposed to be removed (i.e. greater than 50), it may be expedient to estimate replacement numbers using average figures derived from a representative sample. To calculate offsets, the number of trees in each defined class range must be determined and then multiplied by the preferred replacement ratio (Table 11) Species that are known to have a slow growth rate (i.e. Buloke) have a higher replacement ratio than species with faster growth rates (i.e. eucalypt spp.).
As such to achieve Net Gain, 1,206 new plants are required to offset the loss the 115 Other Trees proposed to be removed within the precinct.
Table 11. Net Gain scattered tree targets based on the Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006) – for Other Trees
Average Growth Rate Slow Growth Rate* Number Number Size Size of trees of trees Class Multiplier Offset Class Multiplier Offset to be to be (cm) (cm) removed removed > 40 24 30 720 > 30 - 30 - 25 - 40 22 18 396 20 -30 1 18 18 15 - 24 10 5 50 10 -19 - 5 - < 15 40 1 40 < 10 1 1 1 Total 96 1,206 2 19 Notes: *These multipliers relate to the PPWCMA (2006). * Slow Growth Rate relates to Buloke. * Avergage Growth Rate relates to Eucalypt spp.
7.1.3 Summary of Net Gain targets
To offset the loss of habitat hectare zones and Large Old Trees in zones there is requirement to generate within the Victorian Volcanic Plain 9.14 habitat hectares comprising:
• 3.08 habitat hectares of Very High conservation significance Lignum Swamp;
• 0.58 habitat hectares of Very High conservation significance Plains Grassland;
• 0.02 habitat hectares of Very High conservation significance Plains Woodland;
• 5.44 habitat hectares of any High – Very High conservation significance EVC; and,
• Protect 58 Large Old Trees and recruit 2,150 new plants to offset the loss of Large Old Trees in zones.
52 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
To offset the loss of scattered trees proposed to be removed within the precinct there is requirement to:
• Protect 105 Very Large Old Trees, 168 Large Old Trees and 70 Medium Old Trees within varying EVCs and recruit 2,150 new plants within the Victorian Volcanic Plains bioregion,
OR
Recruit 10,900 new plants within the Victorian Volcanic Plains bioregion.
53 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
8 NET GAIN OFFSETS
The Net Gain calculations for native vegetation across the precinct have been calculated (Section 8). The removal of native vegetation described above requires each individual landowner to fulfil all Net Gain offset requirements calculated within this report. While Net Gain offset calculations have been completed for all areas of existing remnant native vegetation within the precinct, on application for the removal of native vegetation within the precinct a Net Gain Offset Management Plan is required in order to outline where offsets are to be generated (i.e. to ensure that Net Gain is achieved).
54 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
FIGURES
55 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
APPENDICES
76 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Appendix 1 – Flora database results
Table A1.1. Significant flora within 10 kilometres of the study area. Sources used to determine species status: EPBC Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) DSE Advisory List of Threatened Flora in Victoria (DSE 2005) FFG Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Victoria) State status of species (FFG and DSE) National status of species (EPBC) is designated by: is designated by: CR Critically endangered x Extinct EN Endangered e Endangered VU Vulnerable v Vulnerable K Poorly Known r Rare k Poorly Known L Listed # EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool
EPBC Total number DSE FFG Act Likelihood of Scientific Name Common Name Act of records 2005 1988 occurrence 1999 NATIONAL Cullen parvum Small Scurf-pea 1 EN e L Unlikely Senecio psilocarpus Swamp Fireweed 19 VU v - Unlikely Xerochrysum palustre Swamp Everlasting 1 VU v L Unlikely #Glycine latrobeana Purple Clover - VU - L Unlikely #Dianella amoena Matted Flax-lily - EN e - Unlikely #Lepidium hyssopifolium Basalt Pepper-cress - EN e L Unlikely #Pimelea spinescens subsp. Spiny Rice-flower - CR e L Unlikely spinescens #Prasophyllum frenchii Maroon Leek-orchid - EN e L Unlikely #Carex tasmanica Curly Sedge - VU - L Unlikely STATE Acacia nano-dealbata Dwarf Silver Wattle 1 - r - Unlikely Austrostipa rudis subsp. australis Veined Spear-grass 1 - r - Unlikely Cardamine tenuifolia Slender Bitter-cress 1 - k - Unlikely Goodia lotifolia var. pubescens Silky Golden-tip 2 - r - Unlikely Helichrysum aff. rutidolepis Pale Swamp Everlasting 7 - v - Unlikely (Lowland Swamps) Lachnagrostis filiformis var. 2 Wetland Blown-grass 1 - k - Unlikely Senecio glabrescens Smooth Groundsel 1 - r - Unlikely Thelymitra luteocilium Fringed Sun-orchid 1 - r - Unlikely Sources: Flora Information System (DSE) and Protected Matters Search Tool (DEWHA)
77 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Appendix 2 – Significant fauna species
Table A1.2. Significant fauna within 10 kilometres of the study area.
Sources used to determine species status: EPBC Environment Protection and biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) DSE Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria (DSE 2007) FFG Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Victoria)
Species status: EX Extinct RX Regionally extinct CR Critically endangered EN Endangered VU Vulnerable RA Rare NT Near threatened CD Conservation dependent DD Data deficient (insufficiently or poorly known) LR Least concern (lower risk) L Listed as threatened under FFG Act I Invalid or ineligible for listing under the FFG Act
# Protected Matters Search Tool (DEWHA) ^ Museum of Victoria Butterfly Database
Common Name Scientific Name Last Total # of EPBC Act DSE FFG National Likely use of study area documented records (2007) ACT Action record Plan NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE Plains-wanderer Pedionomus torquatus 1974 1 VU CR L EN Unlikely
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 78
Common Name Scientific Name Last Total # of EPBC Act DSE FFG National Likely use of study area documented records (2007) ACT Action record Plan # Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis 1989 1 VU CR L VU Unlikely # Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor 2001 10 EN EN L EN Rare/Vagrant # Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus 1968 1 VU VU L VU Rare/Vagrant # Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar Potential Resident (Low 1991 23 VU EN L VU Likelihood) # Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis Potential Resident (Low 2001 41 VU EN L VU Likelihood) Macquarie Perch Macquaria australasica 1926 3 EN EN L DD Unlikely # Smoky Mouse Pseudomys fumeus - - EN CR L RA Unlikely # Spot-tailed Quoll Dasyurus maculatus maculatus - - EN EN L VU Unlikely # Regent Honeyeater Xanthomyza phrygia - - EN CR L EN Unlikely # Grassland Earless Dragon Tympanocryptis pinguicolla - - EN CR L VU Unlikely # Australian Grayling Prototroctes maraena - - VU VU L VU Unlikely # Dwarf Galaxias Galaxiella pusilla - - VU VU L VU Unlikely Potential Resident # Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana - - CR - L - (Moderate Likelihood) ^ Large Ant-blue Butterfly Acrodipsas brisbanensis cyrilus - - - - L VU Unlikely ^ Eltham Copper Butterfly Paralucia pyrodiscus lucida - - - - L VU Unlikely STATE SIGNIFICANCE Red-chested Button-quail Turnix pyrrhothorax 1990 2 - VU L - Unlikely Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla 1987 1 - VU L - Rare Visitor/Unlikely Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica 1986 1 - EN L - Unlikely Caspian Tern Sterna caspia 2000 1 - NT L - Unlikely Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 1990 1 - VU - - Unlikely Brolga Grus rubicunda 1989 2 - VU L - Unlikely Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia 2001 15 - VU - - Unlikely Little Egret Egretta garzetta 1990 1 - EN L - Unlikely Eastern Great Egret Ardea alba 2001 15 - VU L - Occasional Visitor/Flyover Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus 1973 2 - EN L VU Unlikely Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis 2002 39 - VU - - Rare Visitor
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 79
Common Name Scientific Name Last Total # of EPBC Act DSE FFG National Likely use of study area documented records (2007) ACT Action record Plan Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa 1996 7 - EN L - Rare Visitor/Unlikely Hardhead Aythya australis 2003 37 - VU - - Occasional/Rare Visitor Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis 1999 13 - EN L - Rare Visitor/Unlikely Musk Duck Biziura lobata 2003 36 - VU - - Rare Visitor/Unlikely White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster 1999 2 - VU L - Vagrant/Flyover Black Falcon Falco subniger 2000 6 - VU - - Occasional Visitor/Flyover Barking Owl Ninox connivens 2002 18 - EN L NT Occasional Visitor Powerful Owl Ninox strenua 1972 1 - VU L - Rare Visitor Masked Owl Tyto novaehollandiae 1989 1 - EN L NT Rare Visitor Hooded Robin Melanodryas cucullata 1999 12 - NT L NT Rare Visitor Crested Bellbird Oreoica gutturalis 2003 16 - NT L NT Rare Visitor Grey-crowned Babbler Pomatostomus temporalis 1987 2 - EN L NT Rare Visitor/Unlikely Speckled Warbler Chthonicola sagittata 2001 56 - VU L NT Occasional/Rare Visitor Brown Treecreeper Climacteris picumnus 2001 63 - NT - NT Occasional/Rare Visitor Painted Honeyeater Grantiella picta 1990 1 - VU L NT Unlikely Frequent/Occasional Diamond Firetail Stagonopleura guttata 2002 64 - VU L NT Visitor Brush-tailed Phascogale Phascogale tapoatafa 1989 12 - VU L NT Unlikely Common Dunnart Sminthopsis murina 1990 3 - VU - - Unlikely Tree Goanna Varanus varius 1968 1 - VU - - Unlikely Brown Toadlet Pseudophryne bibronii 1990 6 - EN L DD Occasional/Rare ^ Amethyst Hairstreak Butterfly Jalmenus icilius - - - - L NT Unlikely ^ Fiery Jewel Butterfly Hypochrysops ignitus ignitus - - - - L LR Unlikely ^ Southern Purple Azure Ogyris genoveva araxes - - - - L - Unlikely Butterfly ^ Yellow Sedge-skipper Hesperilla flavescens flavescens - - - - L - Unlikely REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophora 1990 5 - NT - - Unlikely Little Button-quail Turnix velox 1974 1 - NT - - Unlikely Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius 2003 4 - NT - - Unlikely
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 80
Common Name Scientific Name Last Total # of EPBC Act DSE FFG National Likely use of study area documented records (2007) ACT Action record Plan Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus 1990 5 - NT - - Rare Visitor Latham's Snipe Gallinago hardwickii 1997 12 - NT - - Rare/Unlikely Visitor Australian Pratincole Stiltia isabella 1990 1 - NT - - Unlikely Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 1986 2 - NT - - Rare Visitor Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus 2000 13 - NT - - Occasional Visitor Cape Barren Goose Cereopsis novaehollandiae 1999 4 - NT - - Rare Visitor Spotted Harrier Circus assimilis 2001 8 - NT - - Occasional Visitor Azure Kingfisher Alcedo azurea 1988 1 - NT - - Rare/Unlikely Visitor Red-backed Kingfisher Todiramphus pyrrhopygia 1986 1 - NT - - Vagrant/Unlikely Visitor Black-eared Cuckoo Chrysococcyx osculans 2000 13 - NT - - Occasional Visitor Spotted Quail-thrush Cinclosoma punctatum 1989 3 - NT - - Occasional/Rare Visitor Black-chinned Honeyeater Melithreptus gularis 2001 8 - NT - - Occasional/Rare Visitor Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos 1990 1 - NT - - Unlikely Fat-tailed Dunnart Sminthopsis crassicaudata 1990 8 - NT - - Rare Visitor Eastern Bearded Dragon Pogona barbata 1986 1 - DD - - Unlikely Cunningham's Skink Egernia cunninghami 2001 24 - - - - Possible Resident Little Whip Snake Suta flagellum 2000 26 - - - - Possible Resident Common Spadefoot Toad Neobatrachus sudelli 1999 31 - - - - Likely Resident
Source: DSE Atlas of Victorian Wildlife (AVW 2007); DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool (http://www.environment.gov.au/erin/ert/epbc/index.html); and Museum of Victoria Butterfly Database (http://flyaqis.mov.vic.gov.au/cgi-bin/texhtml?form=bio_nvicbio)
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 81
Appendix 3 - Defining Vegetation Condition
Table A3. Defining Vegetation Condition.
Criteria for defining Vegetation Condition
Good condition - Vegetation dominated by a diversity of indigenous species, with defined structures (where appropriate), such as canopy layer, shrub layer, and ground cover, with little or few introduced species present.
Moderate condition - Vegetation dominated by a diversity of indigenous species, but is lacking some structures, such as canopy layer, shrub layer or ground cover, and/or there is a greater level of introduced flora species present.
Poor condition - Vegetation dominated by introduced species, but supports low levels of indigenous species present, in the canopy, shrub layer or ground cover.
82 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Appendix 4 – Habitat Hectare Zones within precinct
Table A4.1. Location of habitat hectare zones to be removed and retained according to land parcel zones within precinct
CGW CGW CGW CGW LS 1 LS 1 LS 2 LS 2 PG PG PGW 1 PGW 1 PGW 2 PGW 2 PSW PSW PW 1 PW 1 PW 2 PW 2 PW 3 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW5 PW6 PW6 PW7 PW7 PW8 PW8 PW9 PW9 Parcel # 1 1 2 2 PW4 RT RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM No Parcel ------Number No Parcel 0.01 ------Number No Parcel ------Number 2963 ------0.32 0.01 ------2964 ------0.13 0.00 ------2965 ------0.01 0.00 0.53 - - - 0.10 0.02 ------2967 ------2968 ------2969 ------0.51 0.00 ------2971 ------0.81 0.55 - 0.03 ------2972 ------0.02 0.08 ------2973 ------0.28 ------2993 ------2994 ------0.63 0.04 ------3000 ------3001 ------2.35 0.34 0.13 0.00 - - 0.03 0.00 2.05 ------3002 ------0.02 ------3003 ------0.31 - - - - - 0.08 ------3004 ------0.16 0.01 ------0.05 ------3005 ------0.13 - 1.50 - - - 5.13 ------3006 ------3007 ------0.01 0.00 - - - - 0.27 0.01 ------7128 ------7129 ------7981 0.09 0.08 ------0.00 ------8090 0.09 1.83 ------9841 ------0.65 0.09 ------10697 ------10698 ------10699 ------0.55 0.02 ------10701 ------10703 ------10704 ------0.28 0.06 ------10861 0.05 2.72 ------0.00 0.00 ------11049 2.64 0.04 ------0.00 0.01 ------1.54 0.00 ------11050 0.00 ------11051 - - - - 0.00 0.00 - - 0.00 0.00 ------11052 - - - - 0.01 0.03 - - 0.00 ------11053 ------11054 ------0.00 ------11055 ------0.00 ------
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 83
CGW CGW CGW CGW LS 1 LS 1 LS 2 LS 2 PG PG PGW 1 PGW 1 PGW 2 PGW 2 PSW PSW PW 1 PW 1 PW 2 PW 2 PW 3 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW5 PW6 PW6 PW7 PW7 PW8 PW8 PW9 PW9 Parcel # 1 1 2 2 PW4 RT RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM 11056 ------0.00 ------11061 3.20 0.00 ------11597 ------11702 ------0.01 ------11706 1.35 0.00 ------0.13 ------11707 ------0.17 ------11708 ------0.02 ------11708 - - - - 0.23 - - - 2.20 0.00 - - 0.00 - - - 1.15 0.00 0.39 0.02 ------11709 ------11711 ------11713 ------0.00 ------11714 ------11715 ------11716 ------11717 ------11955 ------11956 ------11957 ------0.56 0.07 ------11958 ------11959 ------0.26 0.18 ------11961 ------12527 ------12683 ------12684 ------12685 ------12686 - - - - 0.64 0.09 ------12688 ------0.00 0.05 ------12689 ------17146 ------17147 1.59 ------0.36 ------17149 1.33 0.00 ------17958 0.00 0.64 ------18056 ------18057 ------18058 ------18059 ------19544 ------0.02 0.00 ------19545 ------0.00 0.00 ------20128 ------20193 ------20197 ------0.62 0.00 ------20198 2.23 0.00 ------0.96 ------20314 ------1.03 - - - - - 4.88 0.02 ------20315 4.83 0.00 ------0.28 ------20315 5.40 0.15 ------0.92 ------20316 ------21155 ------0.05 ------21157 ------21898 ------
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 84
CGW CGW CGW CGW LS 1 LS 1 LS 2 LS 2 PG PG PGW 1 PGW 1 PGW 2 PGW 2 PSW PSW PW 1 PW 1 PW 2 PW 2 PW 3 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW5 PW6 PW6 PW7 PW7 PW8 PW8 PW9 PW9 Parcel # 1 1 2 2 PW4 RT RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM 21899 ------21900 ------21901 ------21902 ------21903 ------21904 ------21905 ------0.49 ------22207 0.05 0.00 ------0.02 0.00 - - - - 0.00 0.01 ------102036 ------104388 - - 1.63 0.07 ------104389 - - 0.33 ------104390 ------104391 ------104392 0.01 0.01 2.63 0.02 ------104393 ------106127 ------106128 ------0.65 0.01 ------106357 ------106359 ------106361 ------106362 ------106363 ------0.71 0.08 - 0.11 1.25 0.00 ------106364 ------106382 ------106383 ------106384 ------0.46 0.01 - - - 0.10 0.00 0.08 ------106385 ------106386 ------106416 ------2.24 0.02 0.16 - - - - - 0.02 0.00 - - 0.66 0.01 ------106417 ------3.35 0.01 ------106637 2.65 0.00 ------0.47 - - - - 0.06 ------106638 - - - - 0.23 0.10 ------111627 ------111628 ------111652 ------111653 ------115587 ------115588 ------115628 ------115629 ------115633 ------115634 ------0.16 0.01 ------115635 ------0.00 0.38 ------115636 ------115655 ------0.01 0.01 ------115656 ------0.15 0.04 ------115663 ------0.01 0.02 ------115664 ------0.02 0.03 ------116280 ------
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 85
CGW CGW CGW CGW LS 1 LS 1 LS 2 LS 2 PG PG PGW 1 PGW 1 PGW 2 PGW 2 PSW PSW PW 1 PW 1 PW 2 PW 2 PW 3 PW3 PW4 PW5 PW5 PW6 PW6 PW7 PW7 PW8 PW8 PW9 PW9 Parcel # 1 1 2 2 PW4 RT RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM 116288 - - - - 1.19 0.02 ------116289 - - - - 1.01 0.02 ------118380 2.09 0.00 ------118585 ------0.03 ------118586 ------0.03 1.06 ------120091 ------0.00 0.03 ------120093 ------120324 ------0.06 ------120325 ------0.03 ------120737 ------123363 - - - - 0.20 0.16 - 3.23 - - - 0.24 - - - - 0.00 ------123364 ------0.18 ------Stockland Land 104388 - - 1.63 0.07 ------104389 - - 0.33 ------104392 0.01 0.01 2.63 0.02 ------120092 ------1.26 0.02 120094 ------9.93 0.06 0.37 0.00 0.20 - 0.11 0.07 - - 120097 ------Other 0.68 0.30 0.01 0.09 - - - 0.05 - - 0.18 0.04 0.26 0.11 0.49 0.10 0.10 0.07 - 0.01 ------TOTAL 28.29 5.78 9.19 0.26 3.52 0.43 - 3.28 7.85 0.63 8.45 2.02 1.48 0.32 6.02 0.27 5.54 0.41 9.43 0.12 0.66 0.01 5.80 0.05 9.93 0.06 0.37 0.00 0.20 - 0.11 0.07 1.26 0.02
Notes: CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland, PW = Plains Woodland, PGW = Plains Grassy Woodland, PG = Plains Grassland, LS = Lignum Swamp, PSW/LS = Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp. RE = Removed, RT = Retained.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 86
Appendix 4 – Large Old Trees in Habitat Hectare Zones within precinct
Table A4.2. Location of Large Old Trees in habitat hectare zones to be removed and retained according to land parcel zones within precinct
CGW1 CGW1 CGW2 CGW2 LS1 LS1 LS2 LS2 PG 1 PG 1 PGW1 PGW1 PGW2 PGW2 PSW PSW PW1 PW1 PW2 PW2 PW3 PW3 PW4 PW4 PW5 PW5 PW6 PW6 PW9 Parcel # PW7 RT PW7 RM PW8 RT PW8 RM PW9 RT RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RM No Parcel # ------No Parcel # ------No Parcel # ------2963 ------2964 ------2965 ------3 ------2967 ------2968 ------2969 ------2 ------2971 ------4 ------2972 ------2973 ------4 ------2993 ------2994 ------3 ------3000 ------3001 ------3 ------2 ------3002 ------3003 ------1 ------3004 ------3005 ------8 - - - 2 ------3006 ------3007 ------7128 ------7129 ------7981 - 1 ------8090 - 22 ------9841 ------3 ------10697 ------10698 ------10699 ------10701 ------10703 ------10704 ------10861 - 18 ------11049 13 ------4 ------11050 ------11051 ------11052 ------11053 ------11054 ------11055 ------11056 ------11061 4 ------11597 ------11702 ------11706 13 ------11707 ------1 ------11708 ------11708 - - - - 1 ------1 - 1 ------11709 ------11711 ------
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 87
CGW1 CGW1 CGW2 CGW2 LS1 LS1 LS2 LS2 PG 1 PG 1 PGW1 PGW1 PGW2 PGW2 PSW PSW PW1 PW1 PW2 PW2 PW3 PW3 PW4 PW4 PW5 PW5 PW6 PW6 PW9 Parcel # PW7 RT PW7 RM PW8 RT PW8 RM PW9 RT RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RM 11713 ------11714 ------11715 ------11716 ------11717 ------11955 ------11956 ------11957 ------3 ------11958 ------11959 ------11961 ------12527 ------12683 ------12684 ------12685 ------12686 ------12688 ------12689 ------17146 ------17147 2 ------1 ------17149 1 ------17958 - 2 ------18056 ------18057 ------18058 ------18059 ------19544 ------19545 ------20128 ------20193 ------20197 ------1 ------20198 4 ------3 ------20314 ------5 - - - - - 20 ------20315 27 ------2 ------20315 21 ------3 ------20316 ------21155 ------21157 ------21898 ------21899 ------21900 ------21901 ------21902 ------21903 ------21904 ------21905 ------22207 ------102036 ------104390 ------104391 ------104393 ------106127 ------106128 ------106357 ------106359 ------
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 88
CGW1 CGW1 CGW2 CGW2 LS1 LS1 LS2 LS2 PG 1 PG 1 PGW1 PGW1 PGW2 PGW2 PSW PSW PW1 PW1 PW2 PW2 PW3 PW3 PW4 PW4 PW5 PW5 PW6 PW6 PW9 Parcel # PW7 RT PW7 RM PW8 RT PW8 RM PW9 RT RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RT RM RM 106361 ------106362 ------106363 ------1 - - 1 ------106364 ------106382 ------106383 ------106384 ------1 ------106385 ------106386 ------106416 ------106417 ------1 ------106637 21 ------1 ------106638 ------111627 ------111628 ------111652 ------111653 ------115587 ------115588 ------115628 ------115629 ------115633 ------115634 ------115635 ------5 ------115636 ------115655 ------115656 ------115663 ------115664 ------116280 ------116288 ------116289 ------118380 ------118585 ------118586 ------120091 ------120093 ------120324 ------120325 ------120737 ------123363 ------123364 ------1 ------Stockland Land 104388 - - 9 ------104389 ------104392 - - 10 ------120092 ------2 - 120094 ------42 - - - 1 - 2 2 - - 120097 ------
Other 1 1 ------1 ------TOTAL 107 44 19 - 1 - - - 1 - 22 9 1 1 8 - 17 1 9 - - - 23 - 42 - - - 1 - 2 2 2 - Notes: CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland, PW = Plains Woodland, PGW = Plains Grassy Woodland, PG = Plains Grassland, LS = Lignum Swamp, PSW/LS = Plains Swampy Woodland / Lignum Swamp. RE = Removed, RT = Retained.
Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria 89
Appendix 5 – Scattered trees within precinct
Table A5.1. Scattered trees to be removed and retained according to land parcel zones within precinct
Parcel # Tree # Species EVC Size DBH Con. Sign. Removed/Retained 20314 34 Buloke Plains Woodland LOT 51 Very High Removed sub to Net Gain 20315 269 Buloke Plains Woodland LOT 40 Very High Retained & Protected 11055 64 Buloke Plains Woodland LOT 56 Very High Retained & Protected 3004 100 Buloke Plains Woodland LOT 54 Very High Retained & Protected 104389 268 Buloke Plains Woodland LOT 40 Very High Retained & Protected 11055 63 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 85 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11056 65 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 88 High Retained & Protected 11061 8 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 94 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11061 9 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 89 High Removed sub to Net Gain 9841 1 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 70 High Removed sub to Net Gain 118380 202 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 75 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120093 203 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 78 High Removed sub to Net Gain 118380 208 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 98 High Removed sub to Net Gain 118380 209 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 75 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 218 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 95 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 222 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 100 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 223 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 95 High Retained & Protected 120094 225 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 95 High Retained & Protected 120094 236 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 90 High Retained & Protected 120094 238 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 90 High Retained & Protected 104390 239 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 80 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104390 240 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 72 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104390 241 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 80 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104391 243 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 70 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104391 245 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 90 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104391 247 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 90 High Retained & Protected 104391 248 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 90 High Retained & Protected 11709 127 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 72 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11709 130 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 85 High Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 174 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 82 High Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 175 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 72 High Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 178 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 94 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 270 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 83 High Retained & Protected 120094 271 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 95 High Retained & Protected 120094 272 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 73 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20198 13 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 83 High Retained & Protected 17149 18 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 70 High Retained & Protected 20314 41 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 91 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20315 45 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 72 High Retained & Protected 20315 46 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 73 High Retained & Protected 20315 47 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 75 High Retained & Protected 20315 48 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 84 High Retained & Protected 20315 51 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 93 High Retained & Protected 20315 52 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 95 High Retained & Protected
90 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Parcel # Tree # Species EVC Size DBH Con. Sign. Removed/Retained 20315 54 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 84 High Retained & Protected 118380 212 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 82 High Retained & Protected 118380 213 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 70 High Retained & Protected 120094 219 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 85 High Retained & Protected 120094 220 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 100 High Retained & Protected 120094 226 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 102 High Retained & Protected 120094 227 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 94 High Retained & Protected 120094 228 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 100 High Retained & Protected 104390 230 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 100 High Retained & Protected 104390 231 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 90 High Retained & Protected 11708 238 Grey Box Plains Woodland LOT 90 High Removed sub to Net Gain 19544 101 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 100 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 115664 105 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 85 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 12688 111 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 86 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 116288 112 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 96 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 20314 37 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 102 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3004 96 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 85 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3004 93 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 101 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 2971 114 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 86 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 2971 115 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 94 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3001 92 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 105 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3001 91 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 80 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 10704 86 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 104 High Retained & Protected Gum 115634 83 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 85 High Retained & Protected Gum 10699 82 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 99 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 104389 198 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 100 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106363 120 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 103 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 2964 102 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 104 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 17147 17 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 110 High Retained & Protected Gum 106363 72 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 80 High Retained & Protected Gum 106363 71 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland LOT 101 High Retained & Protected Gum 104392 253 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl LOT 95 High Retained & Protected Gum 104392 257 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl LOT 100 High Retained & Protected Gum 20314 39 Yellow Box Plains Woodland LOT 89 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 221 Yellow Box Plains Woodland LOT 82 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104391 250 Blue Box Plains Woodland MOT 67 High Retained & Protected 115635 75 Buloke Plains Woodland MOT 35 Very High Retained & Protected
91 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Parcel # Tree # Species EVC Size DBH Con. Sign. Removed/Retained 106416 76 Buloke Plains Woodland MOT 35 Very High Retained & Protected Roadside 89 Buloke Plains Woodland MOT 32 Very High Retained & Protected 17147 27 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 69 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20197 29 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 66 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 44 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 61 High Removed sub to Net Gain 3004 99 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 57 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20316 31 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 67 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104388 199 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 57 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120093 205 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 63 High Removed sub to Net Gain 118380 206 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 65 High Removed sub to Net Gain 118380 207 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 60 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11714 267 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 61 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11709 128 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 65 High Removed sub to Net Gain 106638 140 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 64 High Removed sub to Net Gain 123364 156 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 60 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11056 66 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 66 High Retained & Protected 20198 12 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 62 High Retained & Protected 17147 14 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 60 High Retained & Protected 17147 15 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 69 High Retained & Protected 17147 16 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 54 High Retained & Protected 118380 211 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 65 High Retained & Protected 118380 214 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT N/A High Retained & Protected 120093 215 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 59 High Retained & Protected 120093 217 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 52 High Retained & Protected 106638 151 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 59 High Retained & Protected 106385 165 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 63 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 273 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 55 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 274 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 58 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 275 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 67 High Retained & Protected 120094 276 Grey Box Plains Woodland MOT 68 High Retained & Protected 12689 103 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 76 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 115635 80 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 79 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3004 98 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 74 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3004 97 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 71 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3002 95 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 75 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 118586 117 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 75 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 11959 116 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 62 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 10699 81 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 79 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106363 73 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 72 High Retained & Protected Gum 2994 70 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 77 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 11961 113 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 65 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106361 126 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 60 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum
92 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Parcel # Tree # Species EVC Size DBH Con. Sign. Removed/Retained 123363 164 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 70 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 123363 193 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 77 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 17149 19 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 64 High Retained & Protected Gum 115634 85 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 77 High Retained & Protected Gum 115634 84 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 70 High Retained & Protected Gum 104392 262 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl MOT 65 High Retained & Protected Gum 104392 263 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl MOT 70 High Retained & Protected Gum 11706 182 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland MOT 78 High Retained & Protected Gum 20316 23 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 57 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20316 32 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 69 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 33 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 62 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 36 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 60 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 38 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 54 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 43 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 62 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20315 49 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 61 High Retained & Protected 20315 50 Yellow Box Plains Woodland MOT 55 High Retained & Protected 104391 251 Blue Box Plains Woodland OT 43 Low Retained & Protected 106363 125 Buloke Plains Woodland OT 3 High Removed sub to Net Gain 115629 88 Buloke Plains Woodland OT 28 High Retained & Protected 11050 56 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 28 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 20197 30 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 40 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 17147 22 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 49 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 17147 25 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 48 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 17147 26 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 50 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Roadside 2 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 33 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Roadside 3 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 15 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 11707 68 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 44 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 57 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 24 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 59 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 35 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 60 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 8 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 120093 204 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 45 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 118380 210 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 39 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 104391 252 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 30 Low Retained & Protected 11709 129 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 49 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21155 131 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 19 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21155 133 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 47 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21155 134 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 6 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 120737 135 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 50 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 120325 136 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 50 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 120325 137 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 42 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106638 139 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 15 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106638 142 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 37 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106638 143 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 40 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106638 147 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 14 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 123363 153 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 3 Low Removed sub to Net Gain
93 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Parcel # Tree # Species EVC Size DBH Con. Sign. Removed/Retained 123363 154 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 3 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 123363 155 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 44 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21902 166 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 50 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21902 167 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 4 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21902 168 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 8 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21902 169 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 1 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21902 170 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 4 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21902 171 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 2 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21905 173 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 47 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 176 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 21 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 177 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 20 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106384 179 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 6 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 11706 184 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 33 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Roadside 191 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 40 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Roadside 192 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 39 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 21155 132 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 6 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 106638 141 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 50 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 11056 67 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 18 Low Retained & Protected 11061 5 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 40 Low Retained & Protected 20315 21 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 50 Low Retained & Protected 11708 58 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 15 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 11708 61 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 3 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 120093 216 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 45 Low Retained & Protected 123363 138 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 44 Low Retained & Protected 106638 144 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 14 Low Retained & Protected 106638 145 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 12 Low Retained & Protected 106638 146 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 7 Low Retained & Protected 106638 148 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 7 Low Retained & Protected 106638 149 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 8 Low Retained & Protected 106638 150 Grey Box Plains Woodland OT 34 Low Retained & Protected 3002 94 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 41 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 2994 69 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 25 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum Roadside 258 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl OT 28 Low Retained & Protected Gum Roadside 259 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl OT 9 Low Retained & Protected Gum Roadside 265 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 33 Low Retained & Protected Gum 106363 121 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 7 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106363 122 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 7 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106363 123 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 10 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106363 124 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 7 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 123363 158 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 34 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 123363 159 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 2 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 123363 160 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 2 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum
94 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Parcel # Tree # Species EVC Size DBH Con. Sign. Removed/Retained 123363 163 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 3 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 21902 172 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 1 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 123363 194 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 4 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum Roadside 266 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 6 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106417 107 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 20 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106417 109 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 10 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106417 110 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 25 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106417 104 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 10 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106417 106 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 10 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 106363 77 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 5 Low Retained & Protected Gum 106363 78 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 5 Low Retained & Protected Gum 106363 79 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 5 Low Retained & Protected Gum 11708 195 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 6 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 10704 87 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 50 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 104392 254 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl OT 20 Low Retained & Protected Gum 104392 260 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl OT 13 Low Retained & Protected Gum 104392 261 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl OT 36 Low Retained & Protected Gum 106637 181 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 34 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 11706 185 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 8 Low Retained & Protected Gum 11706 186 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 10 Low Retained & Protected Gum 11706 187 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 14 Low Retained & Protected Gum 11706 188 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 43 Low Retained & Protected Gum 11706 189 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 32 Low Retained & Protected Gum 11706 190 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 52 Low Retained & Protected Gum 106417 108 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland OT 35 Low Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 20314 40 Yellow Box Plains Woodland OT 45 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 42 Yellow Box Plains Woodland OT 46 Low Removed sub to Net Gain 11050 55 Buloke Plains Woodland VLOT 70 Very High Removed sub to Net Gain 20314 35 Buloke Plains Woodland VLOT 70 Very High Removed sub to Net Gain 123364 157 Buloke Plains Woodland VLOT 65 Very High Retained & Protected 106363 74 Buloke Plains Woodland VLOT 98 Very High Retained & Protected 20197 24 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 151 High Removed sub to Net Gain Roadside 4 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 121 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11061 7 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 116 High Retained & Protected 104388 200 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 110 High Removed sub to Net Gain
95 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
Parcel # Tree # Species EVC Size DBH Con. Sign. Removed/Retained 120094 224 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 115 High Retained & Protected 120094 235 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 150 High Retained & Protected 120094 237 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 125 High Retained & Protected 104391 244 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 110 High Removed sub to Net Gain 120094 246 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 150 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104391 249 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 130 High Retained & Protected 123363 152 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 105 High Removed sub to Net Gain 123364 180 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 116 High Removed sub to Net Gain 11706 183 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 111 High Removed sub to Net Gain 20198 11 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 111 High Retained & Protected 11061 6 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 116 High Retained & Protected 11061 10 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 111 High Retained & Protected 17147 28 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 125 High Retained & Protected 20315 53 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 107 High Retained & Protected 104388 201 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 100 High Retained & Protected 104390 229 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 135 High Retained & Protected 104390 232 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 130 High Retained & Protected 104390 233 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 115 High Retained & Protected 120094 277 Grey Box Plains Woodland VLOT 110 High Retained & Protected 118586 118 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 122 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 118586 119 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 161 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 3001 90 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 135 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 104389 197 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 120 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 104391 255 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl VLOT 140 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum Roadside 264 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 135 High Retained & Protected Gum 123363 161 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 163 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 17149 20 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 125 High Retained & Protected Gum 104392 256 River Red Creekline Grassy Woodl VLOT 160 High Retained & Protected Gum 123363 162 River Red Plains Grassy Woodland VLOT 127 High Removed sub to Net Gain Gum 104390 234 Yellow Box Plains Woodland VLOT 120 High Removed sub to Net Gain 104391 242 Yellow Box Plains Woodland VLOT 110 High Removed sub to Net Gain Notes: DBH = Diameter at Breast Height, VLOT = Very Large Old Tree, LOT = Large Old Tree, MOT = Medium Old Tree, OT = Other (small) tree #There are multiple trees with the same tree number in some instances as some trees within close proximity to each other have been recorded using the one GPS waypoint. Tree sizes based on Plains Woodland, Plains Grassy Woodland and Creekline Grassy Woodland EVC Large Old Tree benchmark (DSE), i.e. Plains Woodland – 70cm DBH for eucalypts and 40cm DBH for Buloke, Plains Grassy Woodland and Creekline Grassy Woodland – 80cm DBH for River Red-gum.
96 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
REFERENCES
97 Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Background Report, Toolern Precinct, Victoria
References Allen, G.R., Midgley, S.H. & Allen M. 2002. Field guide to the Freshwater fishes of Australia. Western Australian Museum, Western Australia. AVW 2007. Atlas of Victorian Wildlife. Viridians Biological Databases Pty Ltd, Melbourne. Brett Lane and Associates Pty. Ltd. 2004. Flora and Fauna Assessment, Proposed Melton Harness Track. Published report for LandDesign Partnership for Harness Racing Victoria. Brett Lane and Associates Pty. Ltd. 2007. Exford Road, Melton South, Flora and Fauna Assessment, Published report for Watsons Pty. Ltd. Burgman, M.A. & Lindenmayer, D.B. 1998. Conservation Biology for the Australian Environment, Surrey Beatty & Sons, Chipping Norton, New South Wales. Centre for Environmental Management- University of Ballarat 2006. Toolern Creek Regional Park Environmental Values Assessment. Published report for Parks Victoria Centre for Environmental Management- University of Ballarat 2006. Toolern Creek Regional Park Environmental Values Assessment of Shire of Melton land adjacent to the Park Investigation Area. Published report for Parks Victoria Cogger, H.G., Cameron, E.E., Sadlier, R.A. & Eggler, P. 1993. The Action Plan for Australian Reptiles. Australia Nature Conservation Age. Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA); Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Protected Matters Search Tool: http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/about/index.html. Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) 2007. Macquaria australasica in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of the Environment and Water Resources, Canberra. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat. Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) 2008. Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Canberra. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat. DSE 2004. Action Statement No. 106. Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana. Department of Sustainability & Environment, Victoria. DSE 2005. Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria - 2005. Department of Sustainability & Environment, Victoria, East Melbourne, Victoria. DSE 2006a. Native Vegetation. Vegetation Gain Approach – Technical basis for calculating gains through improved native vegetation management and revegetation. Department of Sustainability and Environment, East Melbourne, Victoria. DSE 2006b. Native Vegetation. Revegetation Planting Standards – Guidelines for establishing native vegetation for Net Gain accounting. Department of Sustainability and Environment, East Melbourne, Victoria. DSE 2007. Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria DSE Biodiversity Maps (www.dse.vic.gov.au).
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Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. 2008. Toolern Precinct Structure Plan: Flora and Fauna Assessment and Habitat Hectare Analysis, Melton South, Victoria. Unpublished report by Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. for Macroplan Australia Pty. Ltd. Endersby, I. & Koehler, S. 2006. Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana: discovery of new populations around Melbourne. Victorian Naturalist 123, 362-365. FIS 2005. Flora Information System. Viridians Biological Databases Pty Ltd, Melbourne. Ford, F., Cockburn, A. & Broome, L. 2003. Habitat preference, diet and demography of the smoky mouse, Pseudomys fumeus (Rodentia: Muridae), in south-eastern New South Wales. Wildlife Research 30: 89 – 101. Galbraith and Associates Pty. Ltd. 2007. Exford Road, Melton South Tree Assessment. Published letter report for Watsons Pty. Ltd. Garnett, S. & Crowley, G. 2000. The Action Plan for Australian Birds. Environment Australia, Canberra. Hadden, S., 1995. Distribution, population habitat estimates and habitat requirements of the Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar (Fischer). Unpublished final report to ANCA. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Heidelberg. Hamer, A. & Hynes, L. 2007. Flora and Fauna Survey, and Habitat Hectare Assessment of several grassland sites within the Shire of Melton, Victoria. Mansergh, I.M. 1995. Spot-tailed Quoll Dasyurus maculatus. Pp. 51-2 in Menkhorst, P. (ed). Mammals of Victoria. Oxford University Press, Melbourne. Marchant, S. & Higgins P.J. 1993. Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds. Vol. 2 Raptors to Lapwings. Oxford University Press, Melbourne. Menkhorst, P. 1993. Flora and Fauna Guarantee Action Statement #41: Regent Honeyeater Xanthomyza phrygia. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne. Museum of Victoria. Butterfly Database: http://flyaqis.mov.vic.gov.au/ cgi-bin/texhtml? form=bio_nvicbio. NRE 2002. Victoria's Native Vegetation Management: A Framework for Action. Department of Natural Resources & Environment, Victoria. O’Dwyer, C., Hadden, S. and Arnold, A. 2000. Flora and Fauna Guarantee Action Statement #106: Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne. Oates & Taranto 2001, Vegetation Mapping of the Port Phillip and Westernport Region. Department of Sustainability & Environment, Victoria. PPWCMA 2006. Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan. Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority. Robertson, P. and Cooper, P. 2000. Recovery Plan for the Grassland Earless Dragon Tympanocryptis pinguicolla. Unpublished report to Environment Australia, Canberra. Walsh, N.G. and Stajsic, V. 2007. A Census of the Vascular Plants of Victoria 8th Edition. Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne.
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